TOTAL READ TIME: 3.5 Minutes
I was given a special gift last month. The gift was pure magic, but disguised as an everyday household item. Just before Christmas arrived a bulging box pouring out a high-end, name brand blanket.
To be honest, I didn’t need a new blanket. My family has more blankets than a household needs. If I dare count, I likely have two or three for every human, dog, chicken and fish on property. Just like you, I have them all. I have hand-crocheted afghans and fleece throws. I have quilts, outdoor picnic blankets, sand-proof beach blankets and even silly ones to wrap and strap around your body. I have former favorites that can’t yet be discarded, as their holes and stains are imprinted with memories.
The new blanket didn’t care about the others, though. It marched into my life with its own purpose. It was in disguise, daring me to accept a different offering.
It multiplied as I unfolded it, and together we melted into the couch. There was no choice but to embrace together in deep ceremony. Imagine the feeling of a dozen puppy cuddles. Imagine giant angel wings enveloping you in their loving embrace. Imagine tightness you didn’t know was there instantaneously dissolves. A miracle from heaven. Under the spell of this magic blanket, my mind switched off and my body melted into original form. My heartbeat gushed out a new elixir that calmed every inflamed bit.
Comfort. That was the true gift I received, but disguised in blanket form. No wonder they call them comforters.
As I let myself be comforted by the blanket, I started asking questions. Do I let myself be comforted enough? Do I let others comfort me, when I am hurting, over-burdened or grieving? This leads me to ask, who are my comforters, the ones I go to for support? Finally, when I am the best one to comfort me, do I even know how to do it?
Sometimes, comfort comes in the way of a friend. Sometimes, comfort comes from the spiritual realm. Sometimes, comfort comes in the way of a comforter or soft sweaters or cozy socks. Sometimes, the best person to comfort you, is you.
How do you comfort yourself? Do you have a favorite sweater or slippers that serves as your comforter? Do you have a special animal, friend or family member? Do you dive into prayer or meditation and seek help from the Source outside of you?
If you aren’t sure where to start, try this trick I learned: if you feel a little hurt, vulnerable or sad, simply place one hand on your other forearm, or place your hand on your heart. Then feel into how great that feels.
It can be your own gift in disguise, a built-in comforter that doesn’t cost a dime.