I often find myself using analogies about finding a path when comforting my husband during the times when he is unable to see past the pain and challenges of the moment. His healing process after spinal cord injury has been slow and the pain he feels on a daily basis builds to a threshold at times that blocks his ability to see a future worth living. During these times I try not to say too much focusing more on providing my gentle touch and undivided attention. The few words I do offer though usually say something to the effect of there being a path forward from this point and that I will be right there with him navigating that path. I see this much like being in the thick of the forest following a trail you know eventually leads to a clearing with wide open views of expansive beauty and endless opportunities for a direction forward.
Interestingly, we have lived in the middle of the forest for the past few years and in the next couple weeks will be moving to a property on a clearing with wide open views out of the forest. I can't help but think of the symbolism as we get set to make this change. I have dearly loved our time here in the woods surrounded by bird songs and the seclusion and protection of the trees. There is great beauty in the forest but it is an easy place to get stuck. The trail is easily covered, the nights are darker, and the days are colder. Trying to find a path that is covered when it is cold and dark can be a discouraging experience. I believe to find a way out one must ignite a light from within. By creating a clear vision of what you want the path to look like and believing it is there the path will then appear.