In our darkest moments, we could never imagine ever have another happy day. It’s that feeling that the walls are crashing in on you and all you can think of is how will I ever get past this, beyond this?

On such a day, my Coach, Fredi Baker said to me, “Elle, in the midst of all this, there is a gift.” I thought the woman lost her mind. I left the session feeling confused, angry, and very discouraged. How is it possible for me to see “a gift” in all this when I feel as though my heart has crashed, my life has lost its zeal…

What I know now, years later, is that in every moment, there is an opportunity. With every challenge we face, “fair” or not, there is a gift, for every “bad” situation we encounter, good will come of it. I know that when you’re in the hole and it feels and looks very dark, you can’t even phantom such thoughts.

What I offer, as cliché as it may be, “time does heal all wounds.”

A devastating divorcée could never imagine ever having “her life back”, never having that kind of love again, only to meet “the most incredible man I have ever loved”, years later. A loss of a loved one does “not heal”, we just learn to live with the idea that they are removed from our physical presence, yet, they are always in our hearts. Do you heal? In many ways, yes! Without realizing it, months, years later, you look back and realize, I did move on, I did smile again.

For me it took time, patience, faith, hope and perseverance. Overall, a whole lot of self-reflection. Spend every moment making the best of the most devastating situation. Live each day with purpose, gratitude, love and integrity. I know that all sounds difficult when you feel as though you can’t stop the tears, or you feel your whole life is falling apart, yet, it’s these same elements of understanding that will maintain your well being.

At times like this, as my very brilliant friend said, “your spirit has been broken”. Your spirit is in your smile, your eyes, your warmth, your love for others. When your spirit is broken, everything in your life seems to have lost its value, its excitement, its desire.

Only you can repair and restore your spirit. Only you can hold on, one day at a time, making the best of things as you heal your heart. I know it’s not easy, and most days it certainly isn’t fun. Nevertheless, I am here to tell you that if you look at the gifts, the possibilities, the opportunities and the choices you have been given, you will realize that you are making your way into the next chapter of your life.

 Every step you take today sets the stage for your tomorrow.

There is beautiful light at the end of the tunnel waiting for you. Take one step at a time, remain positive and be ready to greet the next chapter of your life.

Wishing you a beautiful day filled with peace, joy and light!