Good Grief!

Grief is defined as keen mental suffering or distress over affliction or loss; sharp sorrow; painful regret. "Good grief" must be an oxymoron, yes? There is no such thing as "good grief". Or is there? Grief, just like hurt or anger, is a product of an experience, an emotional product and in due time, if healing is allowed to happen, can produce more balance and serenity in your life. Grief can come from losing someone, something, and can also come from a lost dream or relationship. We have all experienced grief in some way, shape or form. But have we seen the other side of it? The beautiful, healed, strong and balanced side of grief? Where worry no longer exists and new passions are discovered within the ashes?

I have grieved family members and friends, relationships and yes, I have grieved dreams. But what has come of the grief? Memories of my loved ones remain within my spirit and I smile when I think of them; I have grown immensely from every single relationship I have ever had. My dreams? Well...more often than not, God has different plans for all of us than we do. Ironically, I truly believe He knows and wants what is best for us, even when I seemingly don't get my way.

Please remind yourself of something. In all things, we are NOT perfect. Far from it. We mishandle situations, we react defensively, we cry when we don't want to, we fear what we don't know and we hold onto regrets. And we hold grudges which keeps us from moving through life's experiences, including, yes, grief.

At 42 years old, I have learned some tough lessons. But after several dozen conversations with myself in the mirror, I feel pretty damn good about me. In my own eyes, I am a success and good-hearted woman. I am learning everyday, not just from my failures, but from my achievements. Each "roadblock" is a stepping stone to the next adventure.

Embrace it. Own it. Move past it...one tiny step at a time. Life is too short to hold onto anger, resentment, regret, bitterness and yes...grief.