One of the hardest parts of life is...
Letting go of the things that have brought us joy and embracing the grief, loss, and pain that come with it.
Each step is what made me who I am today.
When I was going through a season of letting go (and to be honest, I still am), I quickly learned that not everyone could or would continue on my journey with me—and it hurt. It pained me to the notion that I would be shedding pieces of myself, the good, the bad, and the ugly. It hurt me as I looked back on how I had gotten here, all I've done, accomplished, and achieved, and not feel grief. It pained me to think of those lives I've touched or been touched by - all the lessons, blessings, and relationships that I've experienced to get to this point where I'm forced to let go of what once was so I could make room for what's to come. It was challenging.
With each step forward, gaining momentum, I found myself getting tripped up, wanting to run (away from it all), and setting myself backward more times than I could count. Letting go felt painful. But staying the same felt like hell. I was tired of being stuck. I was tired of feeling like I wasn't making any progress in my life, like the harder I tried, the more difficult it became. I felt resistant. It took me a while to realize that to overcome these feelings, I needed to let go - not only of what no longer serves me but also of the people, places, and things that once did but now hold me back from moving forward with my life.
Looking back, I smile at the woman who fought back every time she encountered a setback and felt immense gratitude for the life she once lived to experience a life worth living. Through the daily practice of gratitude, I now have a more positive, healthy, and loving relationship with how I see the world and others. But more importantly, how I see myself. Each step is what made me who I am today.
What I've discovered on this lonely path is just how messy, and isolating healing really is. I had to give myself permission to extend grace, be compassionate with myself, and be grateful for the season I'm in—even the discomfort. I’ve learned that when you are living in gratitude, it is impossible to be depressed. When I am grateful, I feel good. My heart expands, my mind clears, and my body relaxes easily. Gratitude has been an essential tool for me in learning how to heal from trauma and loss.
While I am grateful to be alive and have the opportunity to heal, I'm still learning to love myself in this season of brokenness - imperfections and all. No matter where you are on your journey, you're not alone - we are in this together, navigating this season with faith, hope, and confidence in knowing you will become much stronger, braver, and more courageous.
With every lesson, there is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient, and so do you.
If you’re struggling to find joy, purpose, or meaning in this season of your life, I invite you to read my book Chasing Perfection: A Journey to Healing, Fitness, and Self-Love, it’s full of practical tips, personal stories, and inspiration to help you on your path.
Order your copy and start your journey to healing today!
Until next time...
Remember, you are loved, worthy, and enough, just as you are, in this very moment, regardless of what has happened before or what will happen next. ♡
Points to Ponder:
What has been your experience with letting go and making space for new beginnings in your life? How have you found gratitude and strength in this process?
How do you practice self-compassion and gratitude in your daily life, especially during difficult times or seasons of change?
In what ways have you found that gratitude has helped you heal from trauma or loss, and how do you incorporate gratitude into your healing journey?