Custodio: On acceptance and the five stages of grief

HOW do I begin this? Hmmm. Sometimes, there are things that our heart desires that simply cannot be had. Whether it’s an attainment of a dream, a coveted job or a special someone (sorry I just had to include this hehe), there are times when things are just, hope against hope, really hopeless. Yup It happens and to anyone, too. We may try to get around the fact that some things are not meant to be, but deep inside you know. You just won't admit it!

First stage of grief. Of course there is a period of denial! We may pretend that there is no problem or that we are fine but who are we kidding? We do “grieve” about not being able to acquire or achieve things we want/need. Yes, sometimes prayers don't help. Friends won't be around to lend a shoulder. It happens!

By now, you probably definitely know that we cannot always get what we want. The anguish (2nd stage) will clearly throw us into a fit! I remember thinking how unfair life was and questioned why the universe seemed to be picking on me! Seemed like I had one misfortune after another that the blows felt the same whether the “misfortunes” were big or small. Arrghh.

“If things get better, I promise I will be good!”

Bargaining (3rd stage) brings hope in tiny, tiny packages. It may seem pathetic to negotiate your situation but at least you've identified a way out right? I have always seen it as a glimmer of hope, a sign that I have not entirely given up.

Still I find myself exasperated and the feeling of sadness just washes over me like a wave of depression (4th stage). Things appear bleak and I shed tears even. No one wants to be in this situation. You just need to learn to accept and let go so you can move on.

Accept it. The process leading to this point may be difficult but when you do get to this point, things will start looking up! I remember struggling at this stage, having various emotions tied up in knots, making me feel really uncomfortable and sad. But you gotta learn to accept; for your own good.

Acceptance (5th stage) allows us to move on. It enables us to look at things from a different angle hopefully, so we can see the light.

I remember reading that letting go gives us the chance to allow something bigger and better to come into our lives. It's true! Sometimes we need to accept things that are difficult whether we like it or not. We need to learn certain things that we don't really want to know and let go of things (and people) that we want to keep. It does take courage and strength to do it but you'll thank yourself for it. In time we will be able to see its worth and be glad that we had the audacity to move on.

Happy Sunday Everyone! :)

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