I've experienced a lot of challenges over the past three months,
causing a great deal of change. Dealing with the sickness and death
of loved ones is particularly hard. Losing both in-laws and my dog
has been rough. Routines have been disrupted, tears shed, plans adjusted, and
lessons learned. I've always known that change is inevitable and
that living life is about moving forward. My mama told me that
things happen like they are supposed to, so make the best of what
comes. Sometimes that's easy and sometimes it's difficult.
Here's
what I've learned:
- Change can happen quickly and at any point in our lives.
- The unselfish kindness of friends is helpful and comforting.
- It is fine to plan for emergencies but they seldom happen exactly the way we think they will.
- Acceptance of our emotions can help us deal with change and move forward.
- We do not have to react immediately to fix every problem; sometimes it is better to wait and see.
- Quiet reflection and deep breathing can calm us during times of stress.
- We cannot and should not control every circumstance in life.
- Resistance to change can cause frustration, anxiety, fear and distress.
- Allowing change to unfold gives us strength to accept, manage and learn from the experience.
- When we learn from challenges in life, we become stronger and better able to cope.
- Making informed, mindful decisions gives us power to deal with whatever change we are facing.
Every
single day presents a new set of circumstances. Embrace them and
live life!
"In
every crisis there is a message. Crises are nature's way of forcing
change, breaking down old structures, shaking loose negative habits
so that something new and better can take their place." --
Susan Taylor
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