Cynthia James Guides Readers to Emotional Healing
Part 2: How to handle emotional wounds that may resurface during holiday celebrations

Do you have members of your family that you only see on holidays or at family events? Do you have relations whose presence brings up painful memories?

I think pain happens. How we deal with the pain is the gift. There are events and things that happen in our lives that cause pain. But I understand that the pain is only energy. Metaphysicians say that energy doesn't become anything until you observe it, identify it and name it. So, this pain, these experiences we have, we name. We place our attention on events and circumstances and then we name them. Often we name something bad, overpowering and destructive. These become distractions from the destiny that is wanting to unfold. But once you learn that the pain is nothing but energy, you can shift your attention and your focus to absolutely put it on things that you want to manifest in your life. You can choose health and well-being, joy, financial freedom and connection to others.

How do you prepare for these situations that have caused you pain in the past? First, you need to understand and identify your story about these situations. We are really connected to our story. We love to tell it over and over with anyone who will listen but the story keeps you locked in the past, keeps you locked in the pattern. So, the first thing is to identify that you've got this story, that you are attached to it in some way shape or form and begin to understand that by shifting your identification with the story, you can absolutely begin to let it go and move on to another place and another way of being.

Use this exercise to become aware of the affect your story has on your life. For one day, listen to yourself and be aware of when you are telling your story. Be aware of how you feel while you are telling the story. Then, pick a day when you refrain from telling your story. When you feel the urge to tell your story just decide to be quiet instead. Watch the reactions of others. Be aware of your connection to others. Be aware of your feelings. What do you feel when you don't have your story to define you? How do you feel when you just live in the moment.? Without the story, you are focusing on the events that are occurring now.

I believe putting your attention on the story keeps you anchored to those feelings, old patterns and the past. Only by releasing your story can your change the pattern of your life.

Next week we will look at what you can do to prepare to enter situations which have caused pain in the past. Remember, freedom is a choice.

Cynthia James is a lecturer, teacher, internationally renowned performing artist and author of "What Will Set You Free". She currently serves as an associate minister at Mile Hi Church, in Lakewood, Colorado, one of the largest new thought spiritual centers in the world, with a congregation of over 10,000 member and friends. To learn more about living a life of passion, visit her website at www.whatwillsetyoufree.com.