Paulo Coelho said, “Your decision to walk creates your path.” When I read those words, I thought, “Well, I guess I’ll have to get off the couch then.” When dealing with grief or loss, just sitting is so easy. We often lack motivation. We don’t see a reason to move, and all this does is make us stagnant. When water finds a place to settle where it won’t be moved along, that water collects stuff from litter, to dead insects, to dirt. Eventually, that water will smell. No longer will you be able to quench your thirst with it. You will likely want to move away from its presence.
Is that you? Moving from your comfy spot seems like too great an effort, and over time, that spot is not so comfortable anymore. Your skin can even start breaking down from the weight resting on it by just not moving. That creates just one more thing to worry about and heal.
When you find yourself sedentary, try getting out your journal and writing about how you feel. What do you think is keeping you down? Does your heart feel heavy? Does it seem that breathing is taking too much effort? This is a good time to pay attention. Try taking some slow deep breaths. Feel the comfort of the fresh air. Rub your hands together enjoying the warmth that brings. Wiggle your toes and stretch your feet.
As you experience your body waking, stand up. Stretch. Reach up high. Then relax your arms and roll your shoulders. Now you are ready to walk. If weather permits, step outside and see where your walking takes you. This walk is a metaphor for your path. With each step you take, imagine yourself stepping forward toward where you would love to be. Where are you going?
After Ron died, I found my path by writing. The more I wrote, the more I wanted to write. I wrote about many things from memories to dreams and eventually started asking myself where I wanted to be, what I wanted to do. Then this led me to know that I wanted to help others to get up off that couch and walk their walks, live their lives in ways that made them feel good and be happy.
I encourage you to get moving. Start thinking about what your next move is. Live your life one step at a time, relishing each step and savoring each moment. You can do this. I have faith in you. Enjoy your journey on the path you create.
I would be happy to put you on the reminder list for or Writing Together Through Grief occurring on Saturdays each week by sending an email to me to emily@lovingandlivingyourwaythroughgrief.com and giving me your email address.
