“Courage to Begin Again”
I know we all interpret experiences differently and that our recoveries from ‘not so positive’ experiences vary for each person. And, as we go through life it’s not always clear which experiences will truly redirect or redefine our journeys.
For some, its not the one event or experience that causes devastation but the compilation of several disappointments and hurts compounded by fear that causes us to go into a tailspin and challenges us with defeat. This is when we can feel devastation. I must confess the word, devastation, has always been frightening to me because it conjures up utter pain and heartache in my mind. It’s never been a word that I’ve used lightly or often. I have the utmost respect for its meaning and impact.
The pain that comes from devastation can feel as tough your heart is truly breaking and your insides shiver from shock. This has been my experience at least. But, I can tell you this, if you can hold on and feel what you need to feel and forgive, you will get through it. And, when you get to the other side, you will be amazed at your own strength, resolve, and resilience. You will also have an undeniable knowing that there is a God and HE loves you---always has and always will. I believe God guides and encourages us to be brave enough to begin again. It can be scary to think about what it means to start over. But, sometimes it’s the only thing to do. Our only recourse. It’s so intimidating to think about. But, once you accept this idea and find the courage to ‘start over’, it really does lift you up and out of the fray and chaos. To love and believe in ourselves enough to take that first step toward a new beginning is not only affirming, it expresses the incredible hope we all hold inside. When we can simply accept the gift of starting over, there’s a wonderful serenity that fills us up and real healing can begin. It prepares us for the next phase of our journey.
As spiritual beings, we are capable of so much! I, for one, refuse to believe in anything else. To be blessed with the chance to begin again by graciously letting go and surrendering all that has been lost provides us with an incredible opportunity to transform our lives and start a new narrative. We can choose to begin again with love, peace, hope and acceptance. One of my favorite proverbs epitomizes this transformation, “Just when the caterpillar thought its world was over, it became a butterfly.” We all have the potential to become butterflies.
So, go ahead…turn around…face the sun…open your eyes and begin again.