Great Loss and Great Gains




We all have things we uphold as valuable and hence know all too well the deep feelings of despair when we lose something we treasured. There is much anguish as we face the loss of a relationship, family member, a close friend, pet, job, house, finances or even a dream. This leaves a gaping hole, and it’s up to us to decide how and when we are going to fill that void.

It is always wise to honor the loss and respect the space that it once filled. By giving reverence, we are creating space for newness. When you take the time to explore you can generate a blessing out of an unfortunate event. You will know when you are ready. There is no set time frame. Your heart may feel callous at first. You may feel displaced. It won’t be easy. Letting go is never easy. However, surrendering will renew your mind, and open your heart.

Personally, it was excruciatingly painful for me to evaluate the great losses I faced over the years. It got worse before it got better. Initially, I had to assure myself that I do add value. Then I had to face some hard-truths and learn some life lessons. I was then able to find the silver lining in each situation. It was not easy, but with more and more practice, this has become second nature for me.
  • The loss of a job affords the time to find a more fulfilling career, new opportunities, an untapped potential. 
  • Taking time after the loss of a relationship helps to break old patterns. 
  • The loss of finances provides an opportunity to re-evaluate the relationship with money and material things. 
  • Grieving the loss of a loved one gives the time to reflect on how to move forward and embrace our daily actions and not worry about trivial things. 
  • Embracing the unconditional love of a pet recreates routines that honor tenderness and devotion.
  • Purging your home sets the stage for letting go of the past and creates space for new beginnings.
There is no need to rush into anything just to satisfy the emptiness. Take time to rediscover yourself, your interests and your passions. Meet new people. Make new friends. There are many ways to harmoniously honor your loss and your future.

So here’s the thing, we tend to appreciate things most before we have it and after we lose it. It should not take losing something to appreciate it. As we overcome our greatest challenges, they do become our greatest strengths.

Exercise: Life Timeline
  1. On a piece of paper, draw an incremented timeline chronicling your life events. (go back as far as you need to.)
  2. Record high points above the line, and the low points below the line. 
  3. Differentiate the level of high and lows. 
  4. Plot key places, events, and people.  
  5. Note how things have changed over time.

  • What did you learn by looking at your life experiences?
  • Did you come across anything unexpected?
  • How did you overcome a great loss in your past?
  • How can that incident be helpful for the future?
  • How can you use your experience to help others dealing with a similar situation?

Finally, I am able to share with others who are amidst similar unfortunate events. It reassures me to see that what I share has struck a chord. Our lives feel full when we have love, purpose, and hope.
The love I have shared is eternal regardless of the situation. Even though I grieved the loss of several things in such a very short time, I am still so full of undying love. It is who I am. So, let yourself off the hook for the loss, don’t beat yourself up.

My Life’s Lesson: Be equally grateful for what you have and what you had, knowing that you have overcome great lost in the past. And in time that loss will reap greater gains.
From the sweetest spot in my heart to yours, may your week be blessed with great gains. 
~Audrey

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