Rising from the ashes

I’m a firm believer that out of all challenges in life, there’s an opportunity for change, an opportunity for betterment and an opportunity to rise again no matter how great a fall. Last year, though challenging for everyone due to the Coronavirus pandemic, it was particularly challenging for me due to some personal issues I’ve been facing. With a fresh perspective, renewed hope, greater faith and trust in a power greater than myself (reluctant though it may be) I am ready to face 2021 with my new armour. Now, that’s not to say I won’t have sad days and difficult nights (like I’m facing right now and perhaps the inspiration for this post). However, I now know that it’s all about progress not perfection. Trusting that there is a greater plan out there and having more self compassion for myself, whilst slowly reducing the guilt and shame I feel for my past transgressions, I know that I can make it…even if just for another night.

You see, the only thing guaranteed about recovery, from almost anything, is that it’s never easy. You can bet that it’ll be heart-wrenching, soul-destroying, full of tears and confusion. You’ll go through just about every emotion under the sun and possibly, will feel like you are going through Kubler-Ross’s stages of grief repeatedly. It may feel like there’s no end in sight and you may aswell give up: on the efforts to get better; humanity; the world and sometimes despairingly so, on yourself. But I’m here to tell you that it’s not worth it. Giving up because a night is difficult might feel like the only option, but is it really what you want? I’ll bet you don’t. You may think or feel like you need to make a drastic choice in this moment to alleviate your pain, but honestly, you don’t and I’m sure if you dig deep within your heart, like I have, you might find that this need to take destructive action stems from a position of unmanageability and lack of control, not because you truly want to. Trust me, I know what a bummer life can be sometimes but I’m evidence of the fact that it is possible to face it head on and whilst putting one foot in front of the other in an attempt to move forwards more positively. The problems you face, the people causing you distress or the issues you are worrying so earnestly about right now are not worth your tears and continued distress. It feel like it’s the end of the world, but in a few years’ time, you may even be grateful for what you’ve gone through and I truly believe that we go through certain things in order to make us more attuned to the pain of others as well as to give hope to those lost souls in the future.

So on this day, remember to offer yourself compassion. Look back at your life or the last year and see how far you’ve come. Despite the crazy set of cards life has dealt you with, you’re still here, breathing and a true warrior! I have faith in you! We were all made with unique qualities and strengths that make us worthy of being alive and we all make important contributions to this world. All human life is precious and that includes yours, no matter how rotten you might be feeling right now. So find that strength, be like a Phoenix who rises from the ashes and join me in my plight to meet every challenge 2021 may throw our way with acceptance, realisation and love. I know you can do it and I’ll certainly try with every fibre of my being.

So what are you waiting for?

Go on, spread your wings and soar,

The Confused Butterfly

Disclaimer: The contents of this website are intended for educational purposes only. Nothing found on this site should be a substitute for professional medical advice nor is it a substitute for therapy. Therefore, please seek the advice of a Doctor or Mental Health Practitioner if you have any concerns about your wellbeing. These views are personal to me and are in no way a representation of other individuals or organisations.