I am feeling very grateful today. I am grateful that I discovered years ago how writing could be so therapeutic for me, grateful that I discovered there was an easy platform I could use to share my thoughts with others and so grateful for all the people who have come along with me every year on my Advent Calendar journey.
Most of all, I am grateful that I had this outlet, particularly at the time of my life partner’s passing, which provided me with a healthy outlet to express emotions, thoughts, and experiences, and help me process and make sense of my feelings.
Contrasting difficult times with moments of joy or success helps cultivate gratitude. I know how recognizing the positive aspects of your life will foster a positive mindset and appreciation for what you have.
The act of putting thoughts into words allows self-reflection, promoting a deeper understanding of myself and my life. Almost every time, it allows me to tap into my intuition and inner wisdom, and release new insights I can’t believe I would have gained otherwise.
I’ve learned a few more things about myself this month. What a blessing it has been to focus everyday on joy, and apply that filter to what I have been experiencing on an emotional level.
I live by these simple guidelines:
1. I give my attention, as best I can, to the best things going on in my experience.
2. I look for things to appreciate, even if there aren’t that many.
3. I look for things to feel good about, even if there are more things to feel bad about.
If all you did was just looked for things to appreciate, you would live a joyously spectacular life.”
— Abraham Hicks
Emotions are complex, and experiencing joy in sad moments doesn’t diminish the depth of grief. Rather, I have discovered how it reflects the intricate and multifaceted nature of the human emotional experience.
Finding joy in the saddest moments can be a profound and complex experience. It doesn’t necessarily mean denying or suppressing sadness but rather embracing the coexistence of different emotions.
If you are familiar with the concept of yin and yang in Chinese philosophy then you know that it is indeed about contrast and balance. Yin and yang represent complementary forces that are interconnected and interdependent.
- Yin is associated with qualities like darkness, passivity, and receptivity.
- Yang is associated with qualities like light, activity, and assertiveness.
The idea is that these opposites are not in opposition but rather complementary. They create a dynamic balance where one cannot exist without the other. In the symbol, you often see a small circle of yin within yang, and vice versa, representing the idea that each contains an element of the other.
This philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of seemingly opposing forces, suggesting that harmony and balance arise from the dynamic interaction between contrasting elements.
The phrase “from darkness comes light” is often used metaphorically to convey the idea that positivity, growth, or enlightenment can emerge from challenging or difficult situations.
We know that in times of adversity or darkness, there is the potential for positive transformation or newfound understanding. Experiencing contrast is fundamental to how we perceive and make sense of the world, allowing for differentiation, appreciation, and a more profound understanding of our experiences.
Contrast enhances perception and understanding by:
1. Highlighting Differences: Contrast makes distinctions more apparent. In art, for instance, contrasting colors or shapes draw attention to specific elements. In life, comparing experiences or situations helps us appreciate nuances and differences.
2. Enhancing Visibility: In design and communication, contrast aids readability and clarity. For example, contrasting text against its background improves legibility. In life, experiencing challenges allows us to appreciate moments of ease and joy more profoundly.
3. Fostering Appreciation: Contrasts contribute to a richer and more nuanced understanding of the world. Moments of hardship can make moments of joy more meaningful, and vice versa. This duality adds depth to our experiences.
4. Facilitating Learning: Learning often involves understanding differences and similarities. Contrasts provide a basis for comparison, aiding in the process of learning and adapting to new information or situations.
Nothing ever goes wrong, because every piece of contrast, no matter how wrong it seems to be, is always helping you clarify what it is you do want.
– Abraham Hicks
Embracing Bittersweet Moments
During our grieving, joy was found in the memories we brought up and the experiences we shared, and the love that existed with him and because of him brought us much comfort, despite the sadness of our loss. It’s a recognition of the bittersweet nature of life.
In challenging times, people often discover inner strength, resilience, and personal growth. Recognizing these aspects can bring a sense of fulfillment and, in turn, joy. There were lessons learned, insights revealed. We grow from these experiences, and emerge stronger from difficult experiences.
I urge you to embrace the contrast between what you know and what you don’t. Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and curiosity. Recognize that personal growth often involves stepping out of your comfort zone.
By actively engaging with the contrasts in your life, you can gain valuable insights, develop a deeper understanding of yourself and others, and take intentional steps toward becoming a better person.
