Ireland, love, and a decision that changed everything

It takes me back to Christmas 2009,

when I first set foot on Irish soil — unaware that I was stepping into my own kind of Narnia

Hi lovely,

This week I’m visiting my second home - Ireland. 

This post is dedicated to this emerald island, but it’s not just about a place; rather, it is about love, loss, and the kind of relationship that changes you forever. The kind that breaks you open just enough to let the light in.

I came to Ireland years and years ago, with someone who is no longer in this world but who shaped mine in ways I could never have imagined. I became Irish, for goodness’ sake, something that would have never happened without him.

As I walk the familiar streets of Dublin, I feel his presence everywhere. It takes me back to Christmas 2009, when I first set foot on Irish soil — unaware that I was stepping into my own kind of Narnia, full of charm, magic, and life-changing moments.

He was the reason I got on that plane. He was the one who showed me love that was beautiful and difficult and worth every heartbeat. And even though he’s gone, a part of me still wishes to talk, to laugh, to say thank you for turning my life upside down and forcing me to choose between breaking and rising. 

I share this because I know many of you carry a place inside that feels like that - a space where nothing grows, yet somehow everything does.

After a loss (either by choice or by fate), we want to protect ourselves from the pain, but in doing so, we also prevent joy, new love, and new opportunities. 

That chapter, that person, even though we parted ways in love before we parted ways in dimensions - he opened the door for me, inspired me, to embark on a journey to a different life. A life to be more. More interesting, more wise, more loving, more courageous, more feeling, just more. 

And it’s what led me to the work I do now: standing beside women who also want to heal, love again, and live more fully after life has changed them.

And if you knew me back in 2016, I understand how surprised you are. Back then, I also didn’t think a better way was actually possible. And yet, here I am.

That’s what healing is -  allowing the experiences of the past to grow something new within you.

“In the shelter of each other, we live.” — Irish proverb

With love & solidarity,
Jelena
https://www.coachingwithjelena.com/love-without-fear