Exercise: It is all about you. What does your life look like now?
By month 9, I had survived the first wave of seasons, the first round of emotional storms, the first unexpected breakdowns. The grief was still raw, but I had begun piecing together a new foundation, accepting my diagnosis, understanding my mind, and recognising how deeply Chai shaped my life.
This stage reflected how my heart remained broken, yet a tiny glimmer of hope had appeared beside it. Not hope that the pain would end, but hope that I could live with it. Hope that I could build a different life, not better, not worse, just different, grounded in everything Chai gave me.
This month invites reflection. Looking back at earlier months, what felt impossible then may feel accessible now. What hurt intensely might feel slightly softened. What felt overwhelming might feel clearer.
Exercise for September:
Look back at all the previous exercises. Revisit something that felt hard. Repeat something that felt healing. Review your notes, creations, or memories.
Acknowledge how far you have come, even if you still feel broken.
About the Author: Elizabeth Blake-Thomas
