In your recovery journey, have you ever felt like you had to work so hard to heal? Sometimes, it is hard to look at ourselves and recognize things that do need healing, and we want to be sure to have a good support system in place for ourselves.

I had a lot of conditioning in my life that caused me to believe, “life is hard;” thus, everything—including healing—was hard. Throughout my recovery, I’ve had to look at that conditioned mindset and question it. For me, it became very clear it was a limiting belief. I had to consider what my belief really was, and if I was living into my belief. My heart told me that life was working with, and for, me—even (and especially) in the hard times. I had to learn to let go of the old belief and live into the one my heart told me was true. Releasing a limiting belief created a new perspective and a way to view things in a different light. I could then look at some of the hard things as an opportunity to build character, learn valuable lessons, and more. Out of that, came many positive outcomes for me.

Like everyone, I go through parts of healing that feel harder than others. However, allowing myself to live by my true belief that this is for me (even if I don’t see it yet) has created an environment where I don’t feel that healing needs to be hard. It has also opened up doors for me to see how much healing has come FOR me with such grace and ease: kindness from others (sometimes strangers), random (even one-time) heartfelt connections with another, the healing magic of nature, and spontaneous ways I’ve felt touched by love. All these, and more, have had a deep healing impact for me. Additionally, there was nothing hard about it!

If you’re feeling that life, and healing, is so hard, please reflect on all the ways life has truly been there for you, with grace and ease. And, if you feel you need support in doing that, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support. There are those happy to be there for you!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.