MOVING ON:

~

Sometimes, as part of taking care of ourselves, it becomes time to end
certain relationships. Sometimes, it comes time to change the
parameters of a particular relationship.

Sometimes, we linger in relationships that are dead, out of fear of
being alone or to postpone the inevitable grieving process that
accompanies endings. Sometimes, we need to linger for a while, to
prepare ourselves, to get strong enough to handle the change.

Knowing that a relationship is changing or is about to end is a difficult
place to be in, especially when it is not yet time to act but we know the
time is drawing near. It can be awkward and uncomfortable. We may
become impatient, but not yet feel empowered to do that. That's okay.
Something important is still happening. When the time is right, we can
trust that it will happen. We will receive the power and the ability to do
what we need to do.

Ending relationships or changing the boundaries of a particular
relationship is not easy. It requires courage and faith. It requires a
willingness on our part to take care of ourselves and, sometimes, to
stand alone for a while.

We are never starting over. In recovery, we are moving forward in a
perfectly planned progression of lessons. When the lesson has been
mastered, we will move on. We will find ourselves in a new place,
learning new lessons, with new people.

No, the lessons are not all painful. We will arrive at that place where we
can learn, not from pain, but from joy and love.