[Six steps that ease the transition from pain and suffering to joy.]

How can a person transform pain and suffering into love and joy? Does it sound impossible? What does one do? Here are some ideas that can help with the transformation process.

Understanding the words “transition” and “transformation” is helpful. Transition is the length of time it takes to move from suffering to joy. Transformation is the actual changed state from one belief system to the next. We have the choice, through amazing grace, to completely let go of old beliefs and embrace more loving ways. Remember, we are divinely assisted and protected in any transition; we just have to allow and accept it.

We come into the world perfect and have the option to learn from pain and suffering or from love and joy. It is those learned belief systems that we assume which transform us into suffering beings. Transformation into a state of love and joy occurs when we realize these beliefs no longer satisfy our higher purpose.

The first key to this process begins when we choose to ask our higher power for help. Putting our life into the hands of our gentle loving spirit will start the transition process.

The second key is to consciously choose to make the change. Many of us read a lot of books and use other tools to try to quicken the process. Believe it or not, we don’t even have to try. Our loving spirit will instruct us through the stillness of our mind, leading us to take any action or non-action required. Trust this and miracles will happen.

The third key is to look at yourself with complete compassion. At first this may seem difficult, but it is really only one step away. Accept yourself exactly where you are right at this moment. Know that you are perfect in every lesson and that there is no judgment.

Depression and anxiety equate to non-acceptance of self. With this understanding, the mental click one needs to feel compassion will come through. Compassion is a gentle force of love. We can then see that the depression and anxiety are just a part of us that wants attention. With much love, we can go inside of the self and the understanding will come to release the depression and anxiety.

The fourth key is to “feel” the body and ask ourselves questions regarding the issue we are facing. “Are there any sensations in my body? What do they feel like? Where are they?” Frequently, we must take a breath or two and “search the body” for the feeling.

For example, take the thought, “I don’t want to be around that person.” For that moment, just let the thought go and replace it with a higher thought. Then take another breath and search the body for feelings behind the first thought. The feeling may go from the solar plexus to the lower abdomen then to the root safety area. Try not to label the feeling at this point; just feel it. Usually a word will come to mind very quickly. If the word “control” comes to mind, then we can ask, “What am I trying to control?” The compassion will take over and our perspective is changed through this feeling, which in turn changes the thought on the matter. One of the greatest things is that the original thought then goes to the “unmanifested” state. It does not have a reason to express itself again. However, if it is partially felt, the thoughts will arise again. Just do your best each time to feel as much as you can. Honoring the transition will allow it to flow better.

Transformation of learning through love and joy is possible. Just choose it over and over and your depression and anxiety will cease. Keep your eyes on your higher power. Allow time for the momentum of new ways of thinking to anchor in your body. You will start to see results in perfect timing. Just trust and know that there is much love around you assisting all parts of your life.

One second of understanding is enough to transform a lifetime of anxiety into peace. Recognizing the miracles in your life will allow more to flow. Conducting a nightly review of your feelings, along with prayers that only the highest and best will occur, has the effect of calming the mind. Start the day with thanks and an affirmative prayer, and just let it all go to your higher power.

The fifth key is to share your understanding with others. This will further your own healing. Remember the perfection of others when you do share.

The sixth key is to focus on what gives you joy. This is your loving spirit expressing your highest intentions. Joy lightens us mentally, physically and spiritually. Joy is what brings about the real healing. Be in the flow, focus on the best, and send love to the rest!

Kathleen Ann is an inspirational counselor available for Angelic Readings and classes at The Soul Mirror in Tampa. 727-365-7449 or 813-964-1156.