Heal over

I think it is human nature to try to avoid pain.  I know that when I am hurting, whether physically or emotionally, my first inclination is to seek comfort.  With comfort and assuagement as my goal, I have turned to many things, from food to denial.  Many - actually, most of those things have lead to a different kind of pain rather than consolation of any sort.

I have recently discovered the value in sitting with the pain and discomfort.  I have a new appreciation for sorrow, and I've realized that I cannot truly let it go until I have thoroughly felt it and experienced its depth.  I am not advocating depression, victimhood or hopelessness.  In fact, I am finding that the more open I am to experiencing whatever emotion is coming up in the moment, the more joyful and peaceful I am.

When we experience loss, it is natural to grieve.  I am learning that trying to avoid or alleviate the grief is only suppressing the anguish where it can fester and become harmful.  Grieving is the organic process by which our hearts heal over.  The depth of the sorrow is a direct path to the height of joy.  The more profound the sadness, the greater the love.

I am grateful for the sorrow, heartache, grief and pain I have and will feel.  When I can find gratitude in the gravity of despair I can find peace.