“Time heals all things” is a proverb that we often hear. I think there’s an important distinction. Time itself, by itself, is not a healer. To think time itself is going to do what needs to be done is a fallacy.

Healing won’t “just happen.” Time invites us into (and creates) a space for our healing—and, over time—healing is absolutely possible. What we do, think, and feel over time affects our healing. We need to be honest with ourselves and ask questions. Do I desire to heal? Why is it important to heal? Am I willing to commit to a recovery/healing path?

Healing is a great gift to ourselves; and, as a bonus, it helps others too. Over time (as we continue our healing recovery), our light will only shine brighter to others which naturally illuminates their light within, and strengthens them with courage to begin, or to begin again, their own healing recovery journey.

Time is our magnanimous ally inviting us into our healing recovery process with openness. It doesn’t demand of us or put expectations upon us. Time is always with us on our journey of healing, but can’t do the healing for us!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist at Recovery Innovations. She writes as an expression of her heart in hopes of connecting to others’ hearts, so that no one feels alone on this journey-and instead feels valued, seen, and heard while growing in empowerment.