Embracing Courage: Love After Loss

Dear Dee,

Today, let’s talk about something close to our hearts – the courage it takes to keep a soft heart in a world that can be downright cruel. There’s this beautiful quote by Katherine Henson that I stumbled upon recently: “Having a soft heart in a cruel world is courage, not weakness.” And let me tell you, those words struck a chord.

Loss is a teacher like no other. It can carve out spaces within us that we never knew existed. It can make us question the very essence of love and courage. And it’s not just the loss of a person; it could be the loss of a dream, a hope, a part of ourselves. The aftermath can be overwhelming, and it’s no wonder that many of us, at some point, fear to love again.

There’s a peculiar kind of vulnerability that comes with opening our hearts once more after they’ve been scarred by loss. It’s like trying to mend a beautiful, delicate vase that once held the most precious flowers, only to see it shattered on the ground. The fear isn’t just about the possibility of loss; it’s about the courage it takes to rebuild, to love again, knowing that the next break might hurt even more.

In a world that often values toughness over tenderness, having a soft heart can feel like a rebellion. It’s not about being weak; it’s about having the audacity to remain gentle, compassionate, and open despite knowing the pain that could come. It’s about choosing love over fear, even when the world seems to encourage the opposite.

I’ve seen friends, family, and even myself grapple with this fear. The hesitancy to invest emotionally in people or dreams again, as if safeguarding our hearts is the only way to shield ourselves from further pain. But what if, just what if, having the courage to love again is the key to healing?

It’s like planting a garden after a storm has ravaged the landscape. The first seeds might be planted with cautious hands, but as they bloom, they bring back color and life. It’s a slow process, one that requires nurturing and patience, but the result is a testament to the resilience of the human heart.

So, my friend, if you’re reading this and nodding along, know that you’re not alone. Your fear is valid, but so is your courage. Let’s be kind to ourselves as we navigate through this tricky terrain of loss and love. Having a soft heart in a cruel world is indeed an act of courage, and every beat is a testament to our strength.

How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life?

I hope you do not let them weigh you down. Keep being soft, keep being brave.

Warmly,
Mama Grace.