Replacing Pain and Negativity

Replacing Pain and Negativity

                As a combat wounded veteran I know what it is like to suffer from pain, both physical and emotional. Physical injuries typically heal in some way. Perhaps with less mobility or in some cases a lingering pain and even surgical scars, which may fade away after time. For some people a physical injury requires an amputation. However, in all of these cases people learn to adapt to their new lifestyle. They make a choice to adapt and overcome something negative and replace it with something that will help them continue living.

But emotional pain is different. This pain comes in many forms such as trauma, grieving, survivor’s guilt, depression and anxiety to name a few. It seems to follow us. Taunts us in our sleep. It may interfere with the way we work, the way we spend time with family and friends, and some of these scars never really heal. For some, it gives that vacant look in the eyes that everyone sees but very few understand. And because of this emotional distress we become negative. We look at life as something “we HAVE to do” instead of something “we GET to do.” We view life as a dark tunnel with no way out. A life in which nothing can kill our pain. We become lost and lose focus on what is truly important in our lives. We feel that we have lost so much and feel like there is a giant void in our heart and soul that nothing can ever replace it.

However, there is hope. There is a light at the end of that tunnel! There is something that you can do to fill that hole and live a life that is happy and rewarding. And it all starts with taking one small step to replace that pain and negativity.

The first thing I will recommend is something I was taught a few years ago. The man that taught me this is someone that I truly look up to, and have the utmost respect and admiration for. And if it were not for him, I may not be here today. I challenge you to go the next 24 hours without complaining one time. Go 24 hours without saying anything negative. No exceptions here! Take the day as it is. And remember that you are alive for a reason! I promise you will be surprised how quickly your life begins to change.

If you can do that, then you are ready for the second step, ridding your heart, your mind of negativity. You must find something to replace it with! Find something to be passionate about! Find something you are proud of! Say positive things! Spend time with positive and happy people that have been through similar experiences as you have. Trust me it works!

Do not be afraid to pick up the phone and call a friend. Talk it out. I do it.

Pretty simple, really. I assure you, if I can do it, than I KNOW you can! I BELIEVE in you!

Make it a POSITIVE day!