I used to think 'embracing the suck' was about gritting my teeth and pushing through. Now I realize it's more about making space for the suck without letting it take over the whole damn house. It's like inviting the storm inside but designating where it can rage. Used to think control was about keeping the storm out entirely. Now I know it's about having a strong foundation so the house doesn't collapse when the wind howls. The body knows when you're faking it. I spent years trying to 'positive think' my way out of grief, and all it did was build a dam. Now I sit with the ache, let it move through, and find there's still space for joy on the other side. I used to try to outrun the avalanche. Now I just find the strongest tree and hold on. Knowing it WILL pass, and the mountain will still be there when it does.