Healing

By Cheryl Richardson

"Ride the edge, don't flee from pain. For deep within lies the security you seek. This security is nothing less than the power to control your mind, and therefore create your world anew."

Anonymous 

Dear Readers,

I know from all the e-mails received, many are feeling emotionally and physically exhausted. Several have said they feel as though the life has been sucked out of them. This feeling makes perfect sense. Grieving and dealing with such extraordinary events takes an enormous amount of energy. As a result, you may get lots of sleep and still feel tired. Or, you might have to work hard to focus your attention even with simple tasks. And, during this time, because your immune system might get a bit rundown, you may be more susceptible to illness.

Here are some things to remember:

1. Get more rest than you think you need

2. Drink more water than you think you need (very important!)

3. Take a good multi-vitamin (with food) every day

4. Take breaks from the news coverage

5. Let laughter help you heal. Play with your kids, rent a funny movie, or turn to the comedy channels on TV.

I've also heard many people in the media suggest to viewers it's time to get on with our lives. While I understand this recommendation comes from a desire to help people heal, the truth is healing occurs as we accept the reality of how out-of-the-ordinary our present circumstances are. It's impossible to move on from an event of this magnitude so quickly. Grief takes time. That said, grieving doesn't mean you need to wallow in pain or feel guilty as you start to resume your normal activities. Trust your process of healing. Allow yourself whatever time and space you need to heal, regardless of what others say.

Finally, at least ten people have mentioned they're feeling tremendous anxiety over predictions that the terrorist attacks mark the beginning of the end of the world. With all of the rumors flying around the net (Nostradamus in particular), I can understand why. Historically speaking, it's quite common to hear these predictions. Why? Because people are scared and, because when we desperately try to make sense out of such a senseless act, we reach beyond our normal understanding. Please remember these types of rumors have occurred during other major events too like the Gulf War or the TWA flight 800 crash.

I'd like to close with an excerpt: "On September 11th every American had a near death experience. We came face to face with the limits of our power over the universe and the essential fragility of our lives. We need to use this realization to create a heightened awareness and sharper recognition of the sanctity and preciousness of life. From this perspective we can deepen our humanity by allowing it to draw us toward what really matters - connection, community, and compassion."

www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletter.html