IFS: Check-In with Irma, the Domestic Organizer

I’ve called her “Myrna” several times, because that’s where her name came from– but it’s morphed into “Irma” and I have failed to honor that. (Quite frankly, I don’t like the name! Either Myrna nor Irma!) Anyway, that’s this aspect’s name– who likes to clean and organize and decorate a home.

She’s been VERY active for the last several years, since we’ve moved so often and settled into new places over and over, and she finally got a chance to come out and do her thing. She gets overwhelmed by other aspects and outside circumstances though. Still– a little conscious chat seem prudent.

I’m on pretty good terms with this Ray aspect. She’s coming out more to help me get domestic chores done and we’re starting to jive more regularly, so I’m pleased with our progress.

Me: Hey, Irma– sorry about screwing up your name! My bad! I also realize I got part of your name idea from Irma Bombeck, way back in the day. Overall, what do you think about how we’re getting along?

Irma: Hey… *shrugs* It’s fine. I like getting things done. I’m still frustrated by issues of the body or the roommates, though. They don’t care enough! I’m fine with not getting something my way if at least something is done to make things clean and organized, you know?

Me: Yes. I have noticed your flexibility with that. You objected to Gerick taking over decorating only because he overdid it to the point of making obstacles to daily living, like filling up side tables with so many objects d’ art that I had no room for a box of tissues and a drink!

Irma: Right! The possibilities are nearly limitless here, though, so I know patience will win the day in the end! I have to admit to being a little burnt out myself lately, though.

Me: I sensed that. I think a lot of aspects are just plain worn out and tired. It’s hard to keep up even the day to day, let alone the projects we have ahead of us.

Irma: Indeed! But–! I’d rather have this as my challenge, than a domestic situation with a plain, small, apartment– which has generally been the way it’s worked. I’m not complaining too much these days, as you may imagine! Other than with frustration for Cat’s general ennui…

Me: *nods* Yes. I know! But she is starting to shift her habits, ever so slowly, to being more neat and clean and organized. We’re essentially pushing her to change her lifestyle to suit US, you know! I think going room by room, as we have, has helped. Now, at least, we have a handle on the shared rooms. Eventually, we may help her with her bedroom, bath, and office– but we’ll wait until we’re invited for that.

Irma: Yes… okay. I’m looking forward to dolling up the magickal attic space! That makes me smile! I think it’ll be utterly transformed before next summer!

Me: Excellent! Any further concerns you may have? Any vulnerable Shadows or Children that you protect?

Irma: That’s a crazy good-bye to spring on a girl! *smirks* Let’s see– I seem to be going domestic style by way of the 60s for some reason, I mean me, not my decoration ideas. Not a concern, more of an observation, like my personal behavioral style is expanding beyond just bitching to get things done. I feel more chill about things, more purring like a kitten. I guess I’m happier now than I’ve ever been, and loving my life and my job.

Me: Wow! That’s great!

Irma: Indeed! Shadows? Children? Well– there, I’m sure there are some around that learned to live with your mother’s filth and got too comfortable with it. What am I supposed to do about them? *looks disgusted*

Me: Just be aware of them for now, I think. I’d like to do some healing work with them eventually. It will entail ridding them of the negative energy they were given when we were all children. I think that will please you. Then they’ll have other jobs, like maybe bringing whimsy to your decorating or something. Play as opposed to, well, opposition.

Irma: All right. I’m keep them in mind– and not jump on them too much. Will that do?

Me: Thank you. Yes, that will do for now. Then we’ll do a healing later. You’ll all be MUCH happier! Thanks for the check-in. I’ll be working wiht you again within the year, I promise.

END SESSION

I also think I’ll add some icons of my aspects so they can write their own journal entries in the future. That way, I can get practice “unblending” from my aspects all the time!