Life is a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs, twists and turns. We experience moments of immense joy and deep sorrow, often in rapid succession. It’s in navigating these extremes that we find our true strength and resilience. My journey over the past few years has been a testament to this truth, as I’ve dealt with profound grief, celebrated significant achievements, and faced financial hardships. Through it all, I’ve learned that these experiences shape and define us, pushing us to grow and evolve.
A Journey of Grief and Joy
Losing my mom was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. We had been distant for years, and it was only in the final weeks of her life that I became her caregiver. Those last days were a mix of pain and beauty, filled with moments of reconnection and love. Caring for her allowed us to heal old wounds and say our goodbyes, but the grief of losing her was, and still is, profound.
Amidst this grief, I found myself giving birth to a new creation—my sixth book. Writing this book felt like bringing a child into the world, a process filled with both labor and love. It was a beacon of light in a dark time, reminding me that joy can exist alongside sorrow.
At the same time, my business was expanding. Hosting the fifth annual Blossom Brunch was a dream come true. With over 70 guests, the event sold out, showcasing the growth and impact of my work. This success was a testament to my perseverance and passion, but it didn’t come without its challenges. Financial hardships have been a constant companion, testing my resolve and forcing me to adapt and innovate.
Through all these experiences—the highs of professional success and the lows of personal loss—I’ve come to understand that life’s rollercoaster is for the making of me. Every twist and turn has a purpose, shaping me into the person I am meant to be.
Embracing the Highs and Lows
Embracing the highs and lows of life is essential for our growth and well-being. Here are three steps to help manage grief and embrace joy:
1. Allow Yourself to Feel
It’s crucial to give yourself permission to feel all your emotions, both positive and negative. Grief and joy are two sides of the same coin. Suppressing your feelings only prolongs the healing process. When my mom passed away, I allowed myself to grieve fully. I cried, I reminisced, and I embraced the sadness. Similarly, when I experienced the joy of publishing my book and hosting the Blossom Brunch, I celebrated wholeheartedly. Feeling your emotions deeply helps you process them and move forward.
2. Find Meaning in Your Experiences
Every experience, no matter how painful or joyful, carries a lesson. Reflect on your journey and find the meaning in each moment. Caring for my mom in her final days taught me about forgiveness and the power of love. Writing my book reminded me of my creativity and resilience. Facing financial hardships taught me the value of perseverance and innovation. By finding meaning in your experiences, you can transform pain into growth and joy into purpose.
3. Cultivate a Support System
Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Grief and joy are both easier to navigate when you have a strong support system. Share your journey with friends, family, or a support group. Lean on them in times of sorrow and celebrate with them in times of joy. Building a community of support creates a safe space for you to express your emotions and find comfort.
Waiting Well
In life, there will be times of waiting—waiting for the pain to subside, waiting for the next moment of joy, waiting for a breakthrough. Waiting well is about embracing the present moment, even when it’s uncomfortable. Trust that every experience is part of your growth. The ups and downs are shaping you into the person you are meant to be.
Remember, life’s rollercoaster isn’t meant to break you. It’s meant to build you. Embrace the ride, feel every emotion, find meaning in your journey, and lean on your support system. Through it all, you’ll discover the strength and resilience within you. You are being made into the person you are destined to be, one twist and turn at a time.
I am being made into the person I’m destined to be one twist and turn at a time🙌🏾🙌🏾🥹 thank you Father for be there with me on this rollercoaster called life