giving in

The idea of "getting through" is so deeply entrenched in our societies that often, in getting through something, we miss the reality and depth of the experience.

In a way, we invalidate ourselves by not allowing ourselves time to feel pain, to suffer, to be lonely, to be frustrated, disappointed, angry or any of the other less than pretty emotions that all of us experience.

Being strong can sometimes be a weakness.

For within allowing ourselves to give in and experience these emotions we learn, not just about ourselves, but about those around us. Empathy and compassion come from our recognition of the validity of experience on a deeply emotional level. You can empathize/be compassionate on a very intellectual level - but it is not the same.

In "giving in" we also allow ourselves to learn how to comfort ourselves.

And that is a skill everyone should be able to do. From knowing how to comfort oneself, we discover choices to offer others who may seek us to comfort them.

Allow yourself time to give in every so often, learn from it, and then step out and back into your strength.