Endings and Empowerment A Fresh Start After Separation
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” The above quote, often credited to Japanese writer Haruki Murakami, can be applied to any obstacle we face in life. Yes, we will inevitably face struggles, but our attitude toward those issues and how we process them can mean the difference between feeling defeated in the long term and rising above our challenges, and divorce is no exception. Here are three thoughts to consider when you struggle to see the light in dark times. YOU HOLD THE KEY TO YOUR HAPPINESS. Most marriages and long-term relationships occur because the people in them make each other happy, so it’s common for each person to define their joy through their partner’s presence. When this connection is severed, the sense of loss can be intense. While it’s understandable to mourn the loss of the positive things your relationship gave you, a divorce or separation is an opportunity to take greater ownership and responsibility for
your own pleasure and contentment. This is a perfect time to pursue new hobbies, interests, and life goals you may have previously put aside due to your commitments to your marriage or partnership. A NEW LIFE IS OFTEN THE BEST MEDICINE. Our bodies often tell us things our minds don’t want to hear. If long stretches of stress or tension preceded your divorce or separation, the situation may have been doing more harm to your physical well-being than you knew. Removing yourself from tense situations can do wonders for your health, improving everything from your immune system to your dietary habits. YOU OWE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF SELF- AWARENESS. Whether your newly single life resulted from someone breaking your heart or mistakes made on your part, don’t allow things you cannot undo stand in the way of your future. Instead, use the situation as an opportunity
to understand yourself. What would you have done differently? What have you learned about yourself? What lessons have you learned about communicating with others and treating them well? These are important — if sometimes difficult — questions to consider. As you grapple with the lessons learned, go easy on yourself and remember that even a mistake can teach you something about being a stronger, better person in the long run.
TAKE A BREAK
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp This recipe is quick, easy, and promises a restaurant-quality meal from your own kitchen. It’s perfect over pasta or a green salad. Impress guests or indulge yourself on a weeknight!
Ingredients • 3 tbsp olive oil • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1 tsp Italian seasoning • 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley • Juice of 1 lemon
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until fully coated. 4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. 5. Roast in the oven for 7–9 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and slightly golden. 6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and fresh lemon juice before serving.
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