My cousin Nathalie and I exchange messages whenever we can. She’s lives in L.A. and she sometimes tells me how lonely it is to be away from her family. I’ve known her as a tough young lady but lately she’s been quite unhappy because of the things that happened to her. Nathalie is a good kid, but I guess sometimes life just throws lemons.

She reads my blog so I decided I’ll write something for her. I always make her laugh but the last time we exchanged messages I find it difficult to do so. I just want to cheer her up. She’s a smart girl, I know she knows what to do but she’s just sad, confused and probably tired too. I’m no expert but I’ve experienced a few failures and heartaches myself. I guess you just have to know how to deal with what you’re feeling. It may be guilt, anger or denial and other negative feelings that you have to accept. It is really difficult and you probably hate to feel that way but you just have to learn to accept it.

Once you’ve accepted it, a positive attitude will help you get back on your feet. Most of us are aware of this but we often have trouble of cultivating a positive attitude because we keep on thinking about the bad that happened. We blame ourselves and worse, we start to hate ourselves. That won’t do us any good. Loving oneself is essential in the process of healing.

A person who knows how to listen could help in lifting your mood. A supportive friend can give you that positive boost whenever you feel stressed and depressed. You can also meditate and be at peace with yourself. Find a quiet place where you can reflect and ask for guidance.

Another way to lift your spirits is to find a new hobby. Start with something that you really love to do. You might even find new friends who do the same things. Or maybe find time to exercise and take care of your health. With proper exercise, your body will produce more endorphins, a class of neurotransmitters used internally as a pain killer which will give you a natural high effect. (Geez, I sound like a nerd.)

Be grateful of the little things. Be appreciative. It takes a lot of practice but once you’re used to it, it will be a habit already. Think of the good things that happened to you in the last 24 hours. You may even list them down if you want to. Be it a good meal or a nice e-mail from a friend, try not to forget the everyday benefits of being alive.

Hey cuz, as they say, when life throws you a lemon, make a lemonade. You can even make lemon pie, lemon chicken, lemon custard, lemon candies or whatever you want. Seriously, I know you will get through with this and eventually find the happiness that you deserve. You’re a nice person, smart, pretty (and maarte just like me. Lol.) and you have what it takes to be successful in life.

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