Starting Over

Image Credit: Hannah Busing 

"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." - Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, 1920

What are we to do when tragedy strikes?

Here’s what I’ve learned about human nature. When the Northridge earthquake devastated thousands, I was rescued when a man stopped to kick down my hotel door. The serendipity included his daughter being wrapped in a sheet—and I had clothes that fit her. I joined the hotel guests in the lobby and calmed them down; many were milling around, convinced they would die.  We did not. Our hotel was one of a few buildings that was renovated.

Helping others gets us out of our way and frequently opens our hearts. Every time we reach out positively, we are helping ourselves and others. We feel good about assisting those in need, whether with a hug or a smile; it will help lessen the load for all involved.

I know that when we freely help another, we are helping heal our hurt.  I lost my mother in a house fire, and my retreat center and home burned down less than six weeks later. My ex-husband became physically violent towards me and endangered my daughter’s life.

To save her, I had to let her go. Ironically, when she found me years later, she said, “Mom, thank you for letting me go.  You had the wisdom of Soloman, and it helped me survive.”

It is always darkest before the dawn. Reach out and be a beacon of light for those who suffer.  In doing so, you will become a giver of hope and an example of rising from the ashes.

You can do it.  Be kind to yourself and know you are having a “makeover.”  Trust the process; you will emerge stronger and kinder and see the world with new eyes. Be still and trust the unfolding of your new life.

Stay tuned for the next stress tip!

Peace & Blessings,

Dr. Lin Morel