Becoming: Transforming Pain Into Something Beautiful (A Poem)

When we experience events or situations that cause emotional pain and mental distress, our whole world may become overturned. Unpleasant emotions can disrupt our daily life in a way that interferes with our familiar routines and/or triggers changes in our ability to function in a healthful way. It might seem like an impossible task, but finding how to move forward and/or begin to heal is possible.

Working through the deep complexities in which emotional and mental pain can weave into every aspect of our lives makes confronting it and finding a way forward a triggering and arduous undertaking. Not dealing with our trauma, grief, loss, stress, anxiety, or toxic influences, for example, can initially seem like a strategy that protects us from further anguish — but I think we all know that this will only be helpful for so long.

Regardless of the cause, there comes a time when we can no longer ignore our internal struggles. Moving beyond survival and into a new way of being — even rediscovering beauty in life — is about using our pain to build resiliency and implement the changes we need to experience growth. By shifting our focus from what has already happened to what we can establish and change gives us breathing room. There is power in taking small steps that begin to deal with our pain; we do not have to imagine the good that awaits — we can set about creating it.

There is no fixed or universal way to know when our individual journey towards healing can begin; our emotional pain is unique to us, but some general signs may indicate we are in a better place to make a start. When we feel more self-aware and in tune with our emotions, we can choose to implement healthy coping mechanisms. Having a sense of control over our thoughts and feelings or finding a supportive network of people can initiate the first steps we need — additionally, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be the most valuable way to learn how to effectively manage emotional pain.

Ultimately, it’s important to recognize that healing is not a linear process and setbacks and challenges may arise. However, with patience, self-compassion and a commitment to growth, it’s possible to move towards a place of greater emotional resilience and well-being.

What are you becoming? Are you taking care of your resilience?

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Further Info:

This is part of my M.T.N Poetry Collection. If you share my poetry on social media, please tag my Instagram and/or link to my Poetry Page; do not edit my work or remove my name or website. If you wish to use my poetry in any other way, please contact me to ask for permission so that information regarding terms of usage can be provided. Thank you.

Important Note: If your emotional well-being or mental health is significantly impacting your ability to function and/or enjoy life, seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor is recommended.

It takes courage to ask for help; if you need further support, know that you are valued, loved and not alone:

NAMI Helpline – a free, nationwide U.S. resource that offers experienced peer-support guidance and advice

CheckPoint – global (by country) resources for mental health support

Safe In Our World – a list of global (by country) LGBTQ+ mental health resources and support