Then there’s the assumed or stated idea that a person, somehow, brought the whole negative experience on himself. He should have known better than to marry that person or have those kids or take that job. Is all this meant to inspire a person and make her feel better? Does it ever really work that way?

I think that calling for authenticity and balance and for taking the time to process a loss is far more helpful and more humane.
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Warmest regards,
Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..What Is Love?

It’s all good – I get busy as well.

Now, ready for winter, that’s another story. Darlin’ summer just arrived (my fave time of year) …so I can’t join you in the winter thing…what’s going on?

Did you go to any of the rallies the other night (re: Ca. and Prop. 8)?

Nice to hear from you and take good care.

Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..The Happy Face Syndrome: Are You Caught In The Trap?

I haven’t forgotten about you. I’ve been very busy and distracted this week. If it’s not one thing – it’s another. I think I’m ready for winter…
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Thanks for visiting and sharing – it’s great to have you!

Yes, denial is a way we protect ourselves, yet it becomes harmful and prevents us from living fully – in technicolor. And life is oh so much better in technicolor, wouldn’t you agree? I think so, in light of the beautiful colors you’re wearing in your photo. Great photo!

Warm regards,
Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..The Happy Face Syndrome: Are You Caught In The Trap?

Great post….and so, so true! Many people DENY their emotions and begin a cycle of practicing this, which as you’ve explained so thoroughly, is very UNHEALTHY. Thank you for sharing this!
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I hear you. Isn’t it great to have friends and a support system in which people are real with one another?

I wonder as you are – why do we hide the fact that it can be bruising and that we go through painful times during a life cycle? It seems to me the happy face craze has really hit these past few years.

Happy is lovely and I can honestly say I’ve become happier and happier in my life. Yet, happy isn’t an every moment of life kind of thing.

Well, Belinda, you know that. I love how real your posts are!

Hugs,
Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..The Happy Face Syndrome: Are You Caught In The Trap?

Nice to have you visit and thanks for your insights.

I LOVE the line as well about putting the smiley face on an empty gas tank.

My life leans so naturally these years toward what is good and is working in my life. Still, there are times in which sadness is present and I’m not into pretending. It simply is an aspect of being human and I think it’s BS to act otherwise.

My concern is that “The Happy Face Syndrome”, as I’ve come to call it, causes people to feel like there’s something wrong with them if they don’t get behind all the “hype” and hide how they’re really feeling.

If you’ve read my 2 posts on lying, you’ll see that I am with you all the way on the honesty thing. And the great thing about the type of honesty you mention is that with our true friends, we are there to support and love one another as whole human beings, not fragmented caricatures of who we truly are.

Be well and hope to see you again sometime.

Warm regards,
Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..The Happy Face Syndrome: Are You Caught In The Trap?

Thanks so much for your comments and insights regarding this topic. Sounds like you’ve been out there “in the trenches”. I do find it fascinating how “taboo”, as you mention, emotions are considered. Unless it’s happy – and not too happy at that.

Emotions have taken the “backseat” as the stepchild (often the “rational” mind is worshipped). My perspective is all aspects contribute: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Why create a hierarchy that doesn’t exist?

I love what you mentioned about the study. Do you know where I might find it?

Thanks again for adding to the mix! Would love to hear more of your perspective on things. I feel it’s so important to learn from one another and to keep “growing” in life by opening ourselves to different perspectives.

Warm regards,
Lauren
Lauren´s last blog ..The Happy Face Syndrome: Are You Caught In The Trap?