Finding Light in the Shadows: Poetry for Emotional Healing During the Christmas Season

During this Christmas season, a time traditionally filled with joy and togetherness, it’s important to acknowledge that feeling emotionally hurt is an experience many of us encounter, even amid holiday festivities. Reflecting on the past few years, I realize they’ve been some of the most turbulent of my life, and the usual cheer of Christmas sometimes felt overshadowed by my internal struggles. I often turned outward in search of remedies, hoping to find solace in the holiday spirit or the company of others. However, this habit only led to more hurt and disappointment, leaving me feeling even more lost during what is meant to be a joyful time.

It took a deep commitment to introspection and an understanding of my emotional well-being to realize that true healing needed to come from within. This personal journey has taught me to embrace the stillness and reflection that the holiday season can offer, even amidst the hustle and bustle. In this poem, I share my understanding of how our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and experiences are all interconnected. It serves as a reminder that even during moments of deep emotional hurt, we can find the strength to reshape our own healing journey, allowing us to step into the new year with hope and resilience.

when i feel emotionally hurt

when i feel emotionally hurt,

it's natural to look outward,

to find the source of my distress,

to lay blame

and to seek redress.

but when i pause

and turn my gaze inward 

to the cause within,

i find not what to blame,

but the power

to heal and realign.

nobody can hurt me

without my consent,

and my reactions are mine to invent.

emotional pain is self-made,

but with introspection,

i can start undoing.

this is not to say others

are blameless,

or their actions right

or shameless.

but i have a choice

in how i respond,

and that choice shapes

my emotional well-being.

my emotions are responses

to the thoughts i think,

beliefs i hold,

and perception i choose.

with practice,  i can change

what to believe,

how to perceive,

what to think.

so i learn to pause,

take time off,

respond not with rage,

but with care and compassion,

and let my emotions be my guide

as i create my own reality

with pure intention.

so when i feel emotionally hurt,

i take a moment to look inward

with gentleness and ease,

and tell myself

all is well,

and i am on a journey of

love and joy.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the poem, especially during this reflective Christmas season! How did it resonate with you amidst all the holiday festivities? Feel free to share your insights in the comments below. This piece is part of my upcoming poetry book, 'Shadows and Sunrises.' If you enjoyed it and wish to explore more, I have review copies available as we step into the new year. You can sign up using the button provided below. Thank you for joining me in this exploration of emotions, and may your holiday season be filled with warmth and peace!

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