Over the last number of months I’ve attended several funerals of relations and friends.  What has struck me about all these “leavings” is the beautiful and respectful manner in which the mourning process unfolds.  It provides a space for grief, a time for acknowledgement of a life that has been lived and a solemn but poignant acceptance that this has now come to an end.

This is a cycle that we are all part of – joining a system in birth (family), belonging and leaving through death or separation.

This cycle of “leaving” extends beyond death; it also manifests when we leave a role, organisation, or relationship.  These “leavings” can be fraught, painful and deeply emotional.  Unresolved or difficult “leavings” create powerful and challenging undercurrents that continue to influence us as we move into new environments, relationships and situations. 

Therefore it is paramount that we honour the past with respect and tenderness, acknowledge the reality of what was gained, and to move on with peace and ease making space for new.  Unentangled and free to join another system.