Follow Your Heart

by lydia @letstalkaboutlove 

For many people, Valentine’s Day arrives adorned in hues of love, but for the broken-hearted, it is only a poignant reminder of what once was. I frequently reassure my clients that it's okay to feel the ache, the longing, and the memories. After all, the wound of heartbreak is a profound form of grief and a universal human experience. More importantly, in the delicate dance of human emotions, heartbreak may also serve as an opening—an opportunity for both growth and healing. While they are intense teachers, suffering and loss also have the power to eliminate the unnecessary, bringing to the forefront the values and relationships that are most meaningful to us, and reminding us that, at heart, we are capable of forming close, loving relationships.


Sometimes, it's only within the deep recesses of pain that we uncover our most crucial life lessons and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves.  So, never fear this. Your pain is valid, and you are exactly where you need to be. The love you invested, the dreams you shared, and the vulnerability you offered were not in vain. They were brave expressions of your beautiful heart. Even unrequited love is never in vain. Please know that you will not be heartbroken forever. And, that with proper self-care, time can heal our wounds. Above all, the valuable lessons learned can last a lifetime. 




It's important to honour the depth of your emotions without judgment. Much of the healing or answers you seek will happen within the quiet, reflective spaces of your mind and soul, so pause and listen as you find your way. You are not defined by the ending; rather, you are shaped by the entirety of the journey. Recognize that your heart, though tender, is resilient. Your broken heart still beats. Each beat carries the rhythm of your experiences—a story of love, longing, loss, and, yes, even the beautiful, enduring spirit within you. Let this be your guide; let this process lead you to a life with more clarity and purpose. The time spent in contemplation is not just a hiatus from the world but a necessary period for healing and gaining insight. 


As you reflect on your experience, remember that self-love is not only a concept but also a practice- a daily commitment to your own well-being. Perhaps even at this moment you already realize that you have risen from pain with some wisdom. Perhaps you’ve discovered a well of empathy, as understanding the nature of your suffering may have likewise opened your heart to the pain of others. Continue to reach out and connect with others. Spend time with those who uplift and support you. In shared humanity we find solace.  In the emotional mosaic of life and love, we are all stories of self-discovery, resilience, and strength. Trust in this.




So, my dear reader, in the quiet moments of introspection, be patient and kind to yourself. The love that once graced your life, though changed, has left an indelible mark, for sure. Honour it, cherish the memories, and trust that within the folds of heartbreak, you are sculpting a masterpiece—a resilient, authentic, and beautifully awakened version of yourself. A Me 2.0! Transformation!  This Valentine's Day follow your heart and hold space for the healing that needs to unfold. In doing so, you may find that the most intimate and profound connection is ultimately the one you cultivate with your own heart. Believe in this.  Believe in your heart. 




Here are some reflection questions to consider:

•     How are you currently processing and allowing yourself to feel the emotions                          

                    associated with heartbreak?

•     In what ways can you honour the depth of your emotions without judgment?

 

•     What crucial life lessons have you uncovered during this period of heartbreak?

 

•     How has this experience deepened your understanding of yourself and your values?

 

•     In what ways have you shown resilience in the face of heartbreak, and how can you 

               continue to nurture that resilience?




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