Recently, I read Lynne McTaggart’s fascinating blog post “All die of heartbreak,” it’s about the phenomenon of high death rates following the grief of losing a loved one. Lynn weaves together studies from around the world and reasons to the following conclusion:
This research demonstrates something very fundamental about the human experience – indeed, the experience of all living beings. The need to move beyond the boundaries of our selves as individuals is more vital to us than any diet or exercise program; it protects us against the worst toxins and the greatest adversity. This connection is the most fundamental need we have because it generates our most authentic state of being.
Despite our propensity for one-upsmanship and competition, our most basis urge always is to connect.
Though the world is filled with incentives (socioeconomic disparities, race, religion, age, size, political affiliation etc.) to exclude and separate from others, our need for connection is fundamental. You and I need it and so does the rest of the world.
Our responsibility as fellow humans is to seek ways of connecting with others, especially those in grief and need. If you know someone grieving any type of loss, a loved one, a job, an illness, a home etc., reach out to them. Your actions may save a life. You may even be saving your own.
No one environmental or dietary risk factor
appears more important than isolation
— from other people, from our own feelings and from a higher source.
–Lynn McTaggart – regarding heart disease
Your message couldn't be more timely, and as usual, just what I needed to hear/read. xo
Love you, too.
When my wife was found to have a brain tumor, I experienced a profound sense of deep sadness. It felt as if I was about to disconnect from myself. Days later, when she woke up after surgery, I felt a huge relief as if my life had suddenly become whole.
Connection truly matters. It is the one thing that makes us human.
I love your story, Steve. I think of it often. We always hear of the sad endings. I treasure your happy one.
Cynthia
Thought provoking post about such a sensitive and very personal struggle… the loss of loved ones…Thanks… Fay
Thank you, Fay. It’s topics like this that lead me to say, “Life isn’t for the faint of heart.” So much strength is required to navigate this world. I am often awestruck by the power I see in others.
Cynthia
Love you.