The Healing Journey

August 6, 2023

“All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on.”
— Havelock Ellis

There will come a time in your healing journey when everyone will assume, “She’s over it by now” or “He’s recovered and moving on with his life.” When you’re actually just beginning.

These people can either be misinformed about the grieving process or engaged in wishful thinking because they don’t want to prolong their own discomfort. But such is life. At the same time, you will encounter compassionate souls who have gone before you and who truly understand what you’re going through.

After the initial shock of a personal loss, the dust may temporarily settle. That’s when your true assessment of what has happened begins. It will occur a little more day by day when you realize that all the habits and practices that you built up over decades have been disrupted and you have to start your new life. This can be difficult to do because you may not even be sure what your new life is supposed to look like. All of this — healing … surviving … adjusting … refocusing — takes time and can’t be rushed. That’s precisely why when other people think you’ve moved on, you’ll just be getting started.

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While you may be alone, you can’t do it alone. Look for support and remember that this process will take time.