Pain is a part of life. How did you handle the biggest pains you’ve experienced? How did you heal from it? How did you manage to move forward? There are different ways, and the process is unique for each one. Regardless of the method, understand that pain has a purpose. Many people believe difficulties are resolved by apologies especially for issues of betrayal. I have heard people say, “He has apologized and I have forgiven him.” Yes, that is a step towards freedom. However, was the person changed after the incident? Were there efforts to improve his behavior? There are also some instances when people would actively look away and repress the pain. They fear bringing it up may only make matters worse. But did you know that going through pain and experiencing it is one way to be on the path of healing? Here are some things you can keep in mind:
PAIN AS A PARTNER
Every experience of pain experience we’ve been through, presently going through, or will feel in the future has a purpose. We learn and grow through life’s most difficult experiences. We cannot wish it away; without pain, we will not evolve.
PAIN AS A TEACHER
It is ironically one of those things that teach us what to avoid. Growing up, we were always reminded to avoid touching hot surfaces as it can bring severe burns. But sometimes, our curiosity gets the better of us and we have to learn things the hard way. When we do, we finally learn.
PAIN AS A FILTER
It sifts us and makes us realize that which is important. For example, most of us lost our freedom to experience things outside. But because of this loss, we were able to realize our priorities and the things we need to survive. We realized that we didn’t need big parties or celebrations to enjoy milestones. We can celebrate at home meaningfully at home.
PAIN AS A MAGNIFIER
It allows us to see the strength that we possess. It allows us to see that we are not perfect and that we need more compassion for ourselves and our loved ones. Look into your pain and see what it is magnifying for you. What is a pain trying to emphasize for you?
PAIN AS AN EXPANDER
It expands our patience, our creativity, our faith, our inner wisdom. It unlocks our strengths to become better individuals. It humbles us and equips us with the necessary values to pull through. How has pain expanded you?
PAIN AS AN ENCOURAGER
This is true when we fall sick or experience major life changes. It encourages us to look into how we survived past hurts and asks to remain steadfast. It also allows us to move in humility knowing there are some things we cannot do alone. It encourages us to seek the help of our loved ones and our Lord. – WITH PAU DE VERA
Photo by Paola Chaaya on Unsplash