Happy First Monday in October!
I hope you enjoyed your weekend and set aside some time to rest!
I’ve noticed some patterns developing that are generating profound sadness in many people these days. In these unique times of extremes, I wonder how many of us struggle with sorrow. Perhaps not the kind of sorrow that leads to despondence or depression, which is certainly a possibility. I’m considering more the kind of sorrow that generates thoughtful rumination on the various facets of life.
Sometimes we reflect on life in retrospect as we review past events that lead to present realities. We wonder how we arrived at this particular place in our friendships, marriages, families, and careers. It’s often an exercise in connecting the dots to discover where steps taken worked counterintuitively to our original goals. Maybe the process reveals choices that we made in a misguided effort to improve our experiences but instead shifted the course in another direction. The practice can be painful and seemingly unforgiving.
These are the times that we lean on our most significant victories. Although we may have strayed from the original course, we recognize that many opportunities for growth and reparation manifested amid the darkness. Confusion and chaos may turn to understanding, as we begin to see how much we’ve developed and matured. Essentially, we allow the wounds to heal through the light of reflection.
This quote is from Rumi; the 13th-century Persian poet whose works continue to inspire:
Others have shared their thoughts on sorrow.
Henry James wrote:
“Sorrow comes in great waves, but it rolls over us, and though it may almost smother us, it leaves us on the spot, and we know that if it is strong we are stronger, inasmuch as it passes and we remain.”
Johan Wolfgang von Goethe similarly shared:
“Only by joy and sorrow does a person know anything about themselves and their destiny. They learn what to do and what to avoid.”
And, consider these words from Ralph Waldo Emerson:
“Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, faith looks up.”
Finally, these inspirational words from Scripture:
“My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.” Psalm 119:28 (NIV)
“I know I distressed you greatly with my letter. Although I felt awful at the time, I don’t feel at all bad now that I see how it turned out. The letter upset you, but only for a while. Now I’m glad—not that you were upset, but that you were jarred into turning things around. You let the distress bring you to God, not drive you from him. The result was all gain, no loss.” 2 Corinthians 7:9 (MSG)
“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4 (NKJV)
Sorrow then can inspire adjustment and change. Upon reflection of our sadness, we see the benefits of self-discovery, determine where our strengths reside, and reveal our true nature. We also realize that the fissures we experience as sorrows may be the very places where the light of understanding and discernment provides clarity and healing.
Consider entertaining a different perspective on sorrow this week. Spend time reflecting on how sorrow may be the catalyst to growth. Be fearless! Then, find someone with whom to share your discoveries. Your transparency may be the very thing another may need to find the light in their fractured thoughts.
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
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