I doubt anyone has ever mentioned that you appear extremely joyful or that you grin excessively.

Why is it that whenever we feel negative emotions like grief, despair, or depression, we are often expected to overcome them within a certain timeframe? In our modern society, it is also considered unacceptable to openly share feelings of loneliness, sadness, fear, or general unhappiness.

My brother died at the tender age of 12 and left such a void in our lives that my entire family grieved his loss for decades. Fortunately, we were raised to accept this as a perfectly normal and natural process for us. We all understood that we would work through our feelings of grief and loss in our own way and at our own pace. We did not grieve according to a schedule or set of societal rules.

A helpful approach to understanding and dealing with emotions is to compare them to how our body processes food. Similar to the way we break down, digest, and absorb nutrients from food, we also need to process our emotions to extract the valuable lessons and insights they offer for personal growth.

And just as no one needs to tell your body what to do or how to digest the food you eat, there is no need for anyone to tell you how to process your emotions. We all have our own innate process that is perfect for each of us as an individual and serves us in a perfect, natural order. But when an outside influence or source tries to interfere, even with the best of intentions, things often start to go wrong.

Apologies should never be made for expressing emotions. By doing so, you are essentially apologizing for being honest and genuine.

The emotions that we are advised to repress need an outlet. Ignoring them doesn’t make them disappear entirely. Instead, they are stored in our unconscious mind and in our cellular memory. If we don’t address and release them in a healthy manner, they will grow and become harmful to our mental and physical well-being until they find a resolution.

When we entered into this realm, into this specific version of reality, we were given the gift of having and controlling our thoughts and emotions in any situation. When did it become a disadvantage to openly express negative feelings? How did these emotions acquire their labels of positive or negative? Who made the decision for us that it was acceptable to experience joy, but not acceptable to feel sadness?

Our ancestors were lucky. They were privileged when it came to expressing their true feelings because they had communal practices and rituals that provided socially accepted ways of expressing and processing emotions such as grief, anger, and sadness. These practices played a critical role in the social fabric and psychological well-being of the tribe or community.

In traditional societies, community gatherings and rituals were integral to the processing of emotions. When someone experienced loss or hardship, the community would come together to share in the grief. Rituals and ceremonies provided a framework for collectively expressing these emotions, strengthening social bonds and providing a sense of belonging and support.

Numerous societies had distinct traditions and practices to handle grief and challenging emotions. These practices typically encompassed mourning periods, specific rituals, and activities intended to honor the departed or recognize personal hardships. These endeavors were not solitary in nature, but rather communal events that fostered a supportive atmosphere for individuals to navigate their emotional struggles.

Living in close-knit communities also allowed for more immediate and ongoing support. There was less stigma attached to expressing vulnerability or sadness because these emotions were understood and respected as universal human experiences.

You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to ~ Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Modern society highly values positivity and productivity, making it challenging for individuals to openly acknowledge and handle their negative emotions in a beneficial manner. Society imposes significant pressure on individuals to constantly showcase happiness, energy, and accomplishments, while disregarding or minimizing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or apprehension. Exhibiting negative emotions is often perceived as a display of vulnerability or inadequacy.

Today, we must deal with our feelings in private, rather than in social and public settings. This isolation then contributes further to the negative emotions we experience and makes it more difficult to seek or receive support. There is also still a great deal of stigma surrounding mental health issues, even in the most progressive circles and nations, which further discourages people who are suffering from seeking help or openly sharing their struggles.

I encourage you to personally explore and interpret your emotions, giving yourself the necessary time to process and release them in a way that feels right to you. It’s important not to let others dictate how you should feel or impose time limits on your healing process. No one should tell you to quickly recover or move on from something that deeply affects you.

The healthier we grow when we behave in a manner that aligns with our inherent nature. Feel free to consistently own and reveal your genuine emotions.

The significance of accepting and conveying our genuine emotions

In a world that often encourages us to hide or suppress our true feelings, it is more important than ever to embrace and express our authentic emotions. Many of us have been taught to believe that showing vulnerability or strong emotions indicates weakness, but the reality is that embracing and expressing our genuine emotions is vital for our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.

Authentic emotions are the real feelings that arise within us in response to various situations or experiences. They can range from happiness and excitement to sadness, anger, or fear. These emotions are a fundamental part of our individuality, and ignoring or repressing them can have harmful effects on our overall health.

One of the main reasons why embracing and expressing authentic emotions is important is that it allows us to form genuine and meaningful connections with others. When we are open and honest about how we feel, we create an atmosphere of trust and authenticity. This openness not only helps us develop deeper connections with loved ones but also enables us to attract like-minded individuals who appreciate and accept us for who we truly are.

Furthermore, embracing and expressing authentic emotions is essential for our mental and emotional well-being. When we suppress or deny our feelings, they tend to accumulate inside us, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. By allowing ourselves to experience and express our emotions, we release the pent-up energy associated with them, which can provide a sense of relief and emotional balance.

Moreover, embracing and expressing authentic emotions can help us gain a better understanding of ourselves. Our emotions serve as valuable signals that provide insight into our needs, desires, and values. By paying attention to these emotions and allowing ourselves to fully experience them, we can gain a deeper understanding of who we are and what truly matters to us. This self-awareness can guide us in making decisions that align with our authentic selves and lead to greater fulfillment and happiness.

Additionally, embracing and expressing authentic emotions can contribute to our physical well-being. Research has shown that suppressing emotions can have negative effects on our physical health, including increased blood pressure, weakened immune system, and higher risk of chronic illnesses. On the other hand, allowing ourselves to experience and express our emotions in a healthy way can help reduce stress levels, boost our immune system, and promote overall well-being.

It is important to note that embracing and expressing authentic emotions does not mean acting impulsively or without considering others. It is about finding healthy ways to acknowledge, process, and communicate our feelings. This can involve journaling, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, engaging in creative outlets such as art or music, or practicing mindfulness and self-reflection.

Have you ever experienced the sensation of someone’s presence in the room and then caught a brief sight of a shadow or a face that you find familiar, only to later realize that the person is no longer alive?

It is a widely experienced phenomenon called a spirit apparition, but people often choose to keep it discreet due to obvious reasons. You are not the only one encountering this.

Recently, I have observed a rise in similar occurrences among my clients, possibly influenced by the increased endeavors of the opposing party to engage in communication with us. Furthermore, I have personally become a noteworthy illustration of this phenomenon.

I am frequently encountering apparitions of deceased individuals whom I have known in my life. These manifestations, appearing as brief spirit forms, bear an unmistakable resemblance to how they appeared during their time on Earth.

Spirit apparitions are energy manifestations of deceased individuals, visible to the living in different forms. The term “apparition” denotes an unexpected or surprising appearance. In the realm of the afterlife and spirits, it specifically pertains to the visible portrayal or figure of a deceased person’s spirit.

Just because you haven’t seen a ghost, does not mean a ghost has never seen you ~ Jamaica Inn, Cornwall

These apparitions can range from fleeting glimpses and shadowy figures to vivid, lifelike encounters. Sometimes it’s just a fleeting shadow or shape, recognisable or not. While many folks dismiss them as mere hallucinations or tricks of the mind, I can assure you that they are very real phenomena. Some of us just see them more often and more clearly than most people. Some clairvoyants, or “clear-seeing” psychics and mediums possess the ability to see spirit apparitions or communicate with spirits directly.

What causes these clairvoyant apparitions? They usually appear in visual form to deliver very important messages, provide much needed closure or give us urgent guidance for our highest good.

A common type of apparition is the visitation of loved ones who have passed on. Many people report seeing deceased family members or friends, often at times of emotional distress or significant life events. These encounters usually bring comfort, closure and reassurance that our loved ones are still with us in spirit.

I have only experienced two instances that can be described as extremely vivid encounters, where the individuals appeared to me in full, realistic detail, as if they were still physically present. These encounters hold great significance and are among the most impactful moments in my life.

The first was five years ago when my husband died. I later learned that he belonged to a group called the “Jedi”, which happens to coincide with my origins. On the evening of his death, he appeared to me in a full, life-like apparition, much like a hologram, to give me an important message before leaving this world to return to the spiritual home from which we both came.

I had another strange encounter in my garage while I was arranging firewood. Out of nowhere, a unknown person appeared and greeted me before swiftly vanishing. Despite not being familiar with him, I am able to vividly describe his appearance and would be able to identify him if I encounter him again. Furthermore, I have a strong intuition that the mystery behind his sudden appearance will eventually be unveiled to me.

Apart from the fact that I probably have seen one, without prejudice or any definite convictions personally I do “believe in” ghosts ~ Tom Brown

Several of my clients, friends and colleagues have recently had similar experiences, sensing or encountering spirits. I encourage you to welcome these encounters. Perhaps ask the spirit their name and why they’ve come. There may be an important message they’re trying to convey and you may be surprised by what you discover.

It is crucial to acknowledge that spirits are not always friendly or familiar. Certain rare interactions might involve harmful beings or agitated spirits in search of closure or acknowledgment. These encounters can be unsettling and may lead individuals to question their mental state or spiritual convictions.

If you come across a ghostly entity or manifestation, remain composed and avoid getting scared. Rely on your gut feelings and inner wisdom. If the encounter brings a sense of positivity or comfort, regard it as a communication of affection and connection from the afterlife. However, if it induces unease or fear, reach out to your loved ones, paranormal professionals, or spiritual guides for assistance in navigating through the encounter. In any case, stay fearless and trust in your own spiritual strength.

Understanding the Phenomenon of Spirit Apparitions

Throughout history, countless individuals have reported witnessing spirit apparitions – ethereal beings that appear to the living. These encounters have captivated the human imagination, sparking curiosity and debate about the existence of an afterlife and the possibility of communication with the deceased. While skeptics dismiss these experiences as mere hallucinations or tricks of the mind, others believe that spirit apparitions provide evidence of a spiritual realm beyond our physical world. In this article, we will explore the phenomenon of spirit apparitions, examining different theories and perspectives to gain a deeper understanding of this intriguing subject.

What are Spirit Apparitions?

Spirit apparitions, also known as ghosts or specters, are believed to be the manifestation of a deceased person’s spirit or soul. These apparitions can take various forms, from translucent figures to full-bodied entities, and are often reported to exhibit characteristics such as floating, glowing, or emitting an otherworldly light. Witnesses often describe a feeling of unease or a sudden drop in temperature when encountering a spirit apparition, suggesting a connection to the supernatural.

Types of Spirit Apparitions

Spirit apparitions can be categorized into different types based on their behavior and characteristics. The most common types include:

1. Residual Apparitions: These apparitions are like recordings of past events or emotions imprinted on a location. They do not interact with the living and are often seen repeating the same actions or appearing during specific times.

2. Intelligent Apparitions: These apparitions are believed to be conscious entities capable of interacting with the living. Witnesses often report communication attempts through sounds, voices, or even physical touch.

3. Poltergeists: Unlike other apparitions, poltergeists are associated with physical disturbances such as objects moving or being thrown. They are often linked to emotional turmoil or stress within a household.

Theories and Explanations

Numerous theories attempt to explain the phenomenon of spirit apparitions, each offering a different perspective on their origin and purpose. Here are some of the most prominent theories:

1. Survival Theory: This theory suggests that spirit apparitions are the souls or spirits of deceased individuals who have not yet moved on to the afterlife. It posits that these apparitions may be trying to communicate with the living or resolve unfinished business before finding peace.

2. Energy Theory: According to this theory, spirit apparitions are manifestations of energy that remain after death. It suggests that strong emotions or traumatic events can leave an imprint on a location, causing residual apparitions.

3. Psychological Theory: Skeptics often attribute spirit apparitions to psychological factors such as grief, stress, or suggestibility. They argue that these experiences are a product of the mind’s attempt to cope with loss or external influences.

4. Quantum Theory: Some researchers propose that spirit apparitions could be explained through quantum physics. They suggest that consciousness may exist beyond the physical body and that these apparitions could be a result of energy fluctuations or interactions between dimensions.

Conclusion

Almost all of us have encountered the grief of losing someone dear to us, be it a parent, a spouse, or even a child. Additionally, we have observed or personally undergone the various methods individuals employ to deal with this overwhelming sorrow.

Dealing with the significant void created by the loss can adversely affect individuals’ actions. Certain individuals resort to extreme measures such as alcohol, substance misuse, excessive eating, prescription medications, or other methods to numb their pain and divert the overpowering emotions linked to grief and loss.

What we ultimately learn is that there is no set time frame in which such profound pain can be dealt with. It can take weeks, months, years or even decades for some. But even when the worst is over, we never really get over the sense of loss. We simply learn to cope and get on with our lives, forever changed, as best we can.

However, the greatest tribute we can pay the loved ones we have lost is to grieve with grace and dignity. Abusing substances or indulging in other distractions may temporarily numb our pain, but how does that honour the memory of the one we professed to care so much about? It also does not allow us to confront and process our emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. Grieving is natural and necessary. When we try to avoid our grief, we miss out on opportunities for personal growth, self-reflection, and ultimately finding peace with the loss.

I will continue to observe the world on behalf of both of us as much as I am able. I will find joy in the company of birds, sing alongside the flowers, and offer prayers to the stars, all for the sake of both of us.

Moreover, when we opt to mourn with elegance and poise, we are actively recognizing the importance of the bond we had with our beloved. Rather than avoiding our sorrow, we embrace it as a testament to the profoundness of our connection and the influence they had on our existence. By electing to pay tribute to the memory of our loved ones with grace and dignity, we not only honor their lasting impact but also honor ourselves and the profound relationship we had.

Ten years ago, I experienced a tragic loss as my dear daughter passed away. Initially, I struggled to comprehend and cope with this immense pain, as it seemed impossible to fill the void left behind. Nevertheless, as time went on, I made the choice to honor her memory by openly and sincerely expressing my sorrow.

I also considered her legacy: she had a passion for improving the lives of the oppressed and downtrodden; she was extremely connected to animals and had such a deep respect for Mother Nature; and she was highly creative and took such joy in her involvement with the things she loved. It became my mission to honor her accordingly.

My affinity has always been with children. Their lives are uncomplicated because they come so easily from a place of honesty and innocence. They are not caught up in the everyday social and material trappings that us adults have convinced ourselves we cannot live without.

I am not skilled in art like my daughter, but I can knit and sew. As a result, I began creating basic items such as gloves, slippers, and baby bibs to send to an orphanage in South America. Did my modest endeavors have a profound impact on the lives of those children? Most likely not. However, maybe the mere knowledge that someone from a distant land loves and cares for them deeply was sufficient to foster a sense of assurance in the hearts of those vulnerable individuals.

Through acts of charity, kindness and compassion, by channeling our grief into meaningful actions that honor the memory of our loved one, we not only pay tribute to their life but also find solace and purpose in our own journey of healing. Whoever that special person was in your life, the one you cared about so much, by all means express your grief. Do it loudly or quietly – there is no magic way. But whatever you do, please do it with honor, grace and dignity.

Grief, I’ve learned, is really just love. It’s all the love you want to give but cannot. All of that unspent love gathers up in the corners of your eyes, the lump in your throat, and in that hollow part of your chest ~ Jamie Anderson

Select the most superior approaches accessible and strive to contribute towards the betterment of society. This way, when your dear ones observe your determination in overcoming sorrow and hopelessness, they will take pride in the respectful tribute you are dedicating towards them. Below are a few suggestions on how to achieve this:

Donate or volunteer: Make a charitable donation or volunteer your time to causes that were important to your loved one. This could involve supporting organizations they were passionate about or participating in community service projects in their honor.

Create a legacy project: Start a project or initiative that honors your loved one’s memory and makes a positive impact in their honor. This could involve starting a scholarship fund, organizing a fundraiser, or launching a community outreach program in their name.

Perform acts of kindness: Pay tribute to your loved one’s legacy by performing acts of kindness and compassion in their honor. This could involve helping others in need, volunteering in your community, or simply being there for someone who is going through a difficult time.

Engage in activities that your loved one was passionate about or support causes they cared about to celebrate their interests. This may include participating in their hobbies, attending events related to their interests, or advocating for the issues they were passionate about.

Rephrase the following text:

You can share the experiences and memories of your loved one with others. You may choose to write about their life in a journal, create a scrapbook or photo album, or take part in storytelling events that enable you to share their lasting impact with others.

Create a memorial: Establish a physical or digital memorial that pays tribute to your loved one’s life. This could include a memorial website, a dedicated space in your home with photos and mementos, or planting a tree or garden in their memory.

Keep their traditions alive: Continue to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and other significant milestones in ways that honor your loved one’s traditions and values. Incorporate their favorite foods, activities, or rituals into these occasions to keep their memory alive.

Seek healing and support: Take care of yourself and seek support from friends, family, or a support group as you navigate the grieving process. Honor your loved one’s memory by finding healing and solace in your own journey of grief and healing.

Honoring the memory of deceased loved ones with grace and dignity is a meaningful way to keep their legacy alive and find comfort and healing in the midst of grief. Each person’s journey of remembrance is unique, so choose the ways that resonate most deeply with you and your loved one’s memory.

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is an incredibly difficult and painful experience. The emotions and sorrow can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling lost and unsure of how to handle it. However, it is possible to navigate this challenging journey gracefully and find ways to honor their memory while also taking care of ourselves. Here are some strategies to help cope with the loss of loved ones in a graceful manner.

1. Give yourself permission to grieve: Grieving is a natural and necessary process for healing. It’s important to allow yourself to feel the pain and sadness that comes with loss. Cry, express your emotions, and take the time you need to mourn. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone’s journey is unique.

2. Seek support: Surround yourself with a support system of friends, family, or a grief support group. Sharing your feelings and memories with others who have experienced similar losses can provide comfort and understanding. Lean on your loved ones during this difficult time, as they can be there for you when you need them.

3. Take care of yourself: Grief can take a toll on your physical and emotional well-being. Prioritize self-care during this time. Make sure you eat well, get enough rest, and engage in activities that bring you joy and peace. Exercise or relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can also help reduce stress and promote healing.

4. Create meaningful rituals or memorials: Finding ways to honor the memory of your loved one can bring solace and comfort. Consider creating a memorial or tribute that reflects their life and legacy. Planting a tree, creating a memory box, or organizing a charity event in their name can help keep their memory alive and provide a sense of connection.

5. Seek professional help if needed: If your grief becomes overwhelming or interferes with your daily life, seeking professional help can be beneficial. A therapist or counselor can guide and support you through the grieving process. They can help develop coping strategies, provide a safe space to express emotions, and assist in finding meaning and purpose after loss.

6. Be compassionate towards yourself: Be patient and kind to yourself as you grieve. Understand that healing takes time and it’s normal to have good and bad days. Allow yourself to experience a range of emotions without judgment or guilt. Remember that grief is a journey, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself as you navigate through it.

7. Find meaning and purpose: While the pain of loss may never fully disappear, finding meaning and purpose in life can bring peace and acceptance. Engage in activities that align with your values or volunteer for causes that were important to your loved one. By channeling your grief into something positive, you can create a legacy that honors their memory.