Turning On The Light At Times Of Loss

A little over a month ago, the hearing in my left ear went, literally overnight. Fortunately, I hear in the right ear and so am not completely deaf. Nevertheless, it feels strange and disorienting. The partial deafness is nudging me to listen inwardly.

What is this condition? How did it come about? And more importantly, how can I restore my hearing? Even more importantly, what can I learn from it? What are the blessings in disguise? Those blessings I am finding come daily, in many shapes, forms and sizes.

Whatever you lose in the course of your life, there is something to gain. You may go through a period of "darkness," and at a certain moment, you may be able to see "light at the end of the tunnel." A breakthrough occurs. You emerge once again into the light of a new day with fresh opportunity and a life, probably previously unimagined and possibly better than you knew before.

The restorative nature within you has a way of bringing you light, even within the darkness of deep loss. The tunnel of loss is confining. Necessarily so. Its purpose is to contain you within the intimate confines of your inner world where healing can take place. You may be alone, but you do not need to feel lonely. This can be a time of personal enriching, preparation for another phase of your life.

The passage towards a new life experience may include euphoria, denial, emotional disorientation and finally a gradual accommodation of the change that has taken place. Physically, we have been constructed to move forward. Our limbs are articulated so that we move more easily ahead. We have eyes in the front of our heads. If we were meant to live in the past, we might have eyes in the backs of our heads.

If you think of the word "light," you have the meanings of both levity and and clarity. The light is always within us. We can switch it on to shed light on whatever darkness we may encounter.

1. Turn on the Light of acceptance

This light means no resistance or fighting or wishing that things were different than they are. Acceptance is neutral, open and willing to cooperate with the situation, just as it is.

To heal from the inside out is the key.
Wynonna Judd

2. Turn on the Light of the present moment, right now

This light is easy. Take in a deep breath. Breathe in the present. Sometimes, I find that lying down stretched out for maybe only a few minutes helps me to come into the present moment, and what it is I need and want to do next.

3. Turn on the Light of surrender

Be willing not to know or have all the answers you want, right away. Imagine you are standing in a column of light, with just enough light to see to take one step forward, no more. In a period of change, the picture is a constantly evolving one. Each moment may offer you a fresh suggestion or perception. Receive it.

If you are a person who likes to feel in control, you may feel uncomfortable -- until you can learn to let go, cooperate and flow with what presents itself to you.

Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you -- all of the expectations, all of the beliefs -- and becoming who you are.
Rachel Naomi Remen

4. Turn on the Light of understanding

Think of this light as one of standing in support of yourself, literally "standing under" with a solid foundation of honouring your basic needs: physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Be willing to explore and discover how you can best support yourself in the present circumstances. Ask, and be open to receive what you need.

Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.
Helen Keller

5. Turn on the Light of awareness

What a precious gift awareness is! That "ah ha" moment when you just know. The truth dawns, not for all time but perhaps just for that insight you were seeking.

6. Turn on the Light of connection

And after awareness, connection. You are never alone. As you connect with the love of your inner spirit, so you are connected with all life forms in the world around you. With this connection comes a peace and reassurance. Love is the connector. All is well.

Eventually you will come to understand that love heals everything,
and love is all there is.
Gary Zukav

7. Turn on the Light of humour, joy and laughter

Norman Cousins' Anatomy of an Illness tells how he prescribed humour and laughter to reverse the negative diagnosis of his life-threatening illness. Choose to be with people who are light of touch, seeing the funny side of life, enjoying simple things.

Humor is healing.

Brad Garrett

8. Turn on the Light of forgiving

Become one who is for-giving -- toward yourself, your disappointments, doubts and fears. Toward others who may have hurt or been critical towards you.

Forgiveness means giving up all hope of a better past.
Lily Tomlin

9. Turn on the Light of loving

Think of loving as kindness and compassion. We all need it from time to time. Give a thought of kindness and compassion for others. Bathe and bless yourself in kindness and compassion as you evolve towards a healthier, happier you.

Love one another and help others to rise to the higher levels,
simply by pouring out love.
Love is infectious and the greatest healing energy.
Sai Baba

10. Turn on the Light of gratitude

Gratitude could be the first and only light to switch on. The attitude of gratitude is pure magic in the process of healing. It allows for an openness, relaxation and receptivity in which your powers of healing and restoration can get to work.

Your life is a gift.

In each day, find your gratitude. Right where you are, find your gratitude. Finding gratitude is going to open you up so whatever would serve you will come to you, whether it's a cure, a spontaneous healing or anything else you need.

Goodness is what you deserve. It is your heritage.

John Morton

 

This moment, what you are most grateful for? Who touches your heart most deeply? Who or what could you forgive to bring yourself greater freedom?

 

Please feel free to leave a comment below, or contact me at anne@annenaylor.com