by Daniel Jacob, MSW
I was able to disconnect recently from the energy of the city, and all that it can produce. Being able to go into nature, a place and space that almost instantly allows one to breathe was received well. As I thought about what I wanted to share this week, I closed my eyes and reflected. What entered my mind and thoughts was not what I could see, but rather than the concept trust the process. What I have been able to see so well over this past year, something that has taken a great amount of work and effort to achieve!
This past year I have been able to see an opening that at times I wondered if it would ever appear. You see, I began this journey back in February of 2009 with one primary goal, to be well. It sounds so matter of fact when I see the word “well’ but as I have experienced, there is nothing so matter of fact about the inside of this ride that I know quite so… A ride that has produced challenge, discomfort, frustration, opportunity, growth, understanding, and the ability to trust the process. This last year has been an opening in many ways. When you break open your mind and body go through a tremendous change, and when you patiently get back up, it really is a process of starting over. You are recreating a new part of you (if you have chosen to) and what that means; the “work” has just begun! There have been many stages and steps in the process when I questioned myself, my ability, and where this was taking me. Until, it just happened. I can’t tell you a day, a time, or a particular moment when I felt the change for the better. What I can tell you is that if I stopped working, taking care of myself (physical and mental health needs) in a manner that was not disciplined, determined, and a part of my daily being I would not have gotten to the place that I find myself at today.
If I didn’t make some lifestyle changes that although began as a social outlet, then turning in to a coping mechanism, I would not be where I am today. If I didn’t trust the professionals and let go of my pride, I would not be where I am today. If I didn’t have an amazing and supportive spouse, I would not be where I am today. If I didn’t do the work every day with the intention of strengthening my mind/body and ability to see what I could control, I would not be where I am today. Yes, this has been a wonderful path that I have found myself on. I honestly have no idea where the future will take me and that in itself is exciting and empowering. I know what I can control, and what I can not I have learned to accept. What this has produced for me is an ever-present opportunity to move forward. Today is a good day, one that I have created, one that I am living and learning from. So, as I end this piece for today, let me leave all those that can hear me with this; believe in yourself and your ability to fight on, because when you do you will realize that you are a resilient being and “The impossible can always be broken down into possibilities” you just have to be willing to trust the process…
Until we meet again, you be well to yourself, give to another and you will receive!
