I recently heard of this concept of Softening the Hard by Kathryn Nicolai via her podcast First This.   

I think of children growing up in the land of make-believe, summers off from school, and having lots of time to play, we hold onto the mistaken belief that life should be easy. 

Then, as adults with responsibilities, jobs, families, health concerns, etc., we feel frustrated, perhaps even angry that life isn’t going our way, and certainly isn’t easy. We may wine: Life’s not fair! … Why me? … Why does it have to be so hard? 

Because life is hard and there’s no way out except to Soften the Hard.  

I think Kathryn meant if we embrace the hard, recognize that whatever the it is you’re going through is going to be hard, if you breathe into it, then, that hard-even though still hard-is a little bit easier.  

This is well and good as long as our hard is the normal hard; however, what about the horrendous hards? 

How do we cope with them? 

How can we soften that hard? 

I think the only way to Soften the Hard is to have faith. Faith in God, spirit, that everything is going to be all right. No matter what, God’s got this! Give God all your worries, fears, pain, and sadness. Though what you’re going through is unbearable, God’s presence, love, and power will never abandon you. You are safe and comforted. 

Then, you have to let go and believe. Believe that all will be okay. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but you’ll make it through the hard and you’ll be fine. Your journey isn’t easy! You may lose your way for a while. There is always light to guide your feet, hope to soothe your heart, and prayers to comfort your soul. All is in divine order and you’re blessed and loved. 

Finally, in order to Soften the Hard, you need to have a good support system in place. Gather round those who love you. Those who give you strength! Those who understand you! Those who can lift you in your darkest hour. Gather those people and hold them close to your heart! Like a flower, breathe in their love, kindnesses, and gifts.  

No matter what your hard is, you can soften it by praying James Dillet Freeman’s prayer of protection: 

“May the Light of God surround you 

The Love of God enfold you; 

The Power of God protect you 

And the Presence of God watch over you. 

Wherever you are, God is.” 

Know while you’re softening your hard, you are loved, loving, and lovable; and your Spirit is divine. 

Peace be with you!