Over and over I am reminded that what gets us through painful times is a friend.
We know that, but when we are hurting we isolate. We don’t pick up the phone and ask a friend for help. We want to be the strong one.
So I suggest you make a list of who you feel uplifted around? Who are you yourself with? Who is cheering for your happiness?
Most of us play the role of supporter and so we feel vulnerable when we reveal ourselves. Surprise is, we become closer to the friend who we speak our pain to. Being vulnerable and telling even a secret, bonds us.
Here’s my take…we are already feeling horrible so what is there to lose if we say everything that is crowding our head and heart? A friend is just like you…a person who listens and honestly wants the best for you, neither jealous nor self centered, a person who is able to be present and not putting their agenda on you. They know you are not them.
If you don’t have a friend near by, use email or the phone. Don’t wait all day for the pain to pass, reach out early. Don’t let the part of you win that says, it will pass, get over it, or whatever sabotage enters your room. Being vulnerable, awkward, is actually normal.
We have forgotten how to put our needs first and receive the compassion and nurturing we deserve. Sounds trite, but over and over, I hear this to be true.
What we know in out heads, we forget to bring to our hearts. Believe it or not, we think to much rather than reaching for a hand. Just reach and call out to someone.
Kleenex wouldn’t exist without us and Kleenex is a good thing.
Natalie
natalie@emptynestsupport.com
www.emptynestsupport.com
800-446-3310
