by Aster C. Lilly

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

Hear that little creaking noise inside your rib cage? That's your heart breaking!

Throughout the history of human art and literature, there has always been a need to describe and express the feeling of a broken heart. Van Gogh cut off his ear. Oedipus blinded himself and wandered the earth.

Although I certainly do not recommend those solutions to your broken heart, here are a few helpful hints to understand what you are feeling.

1. THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO SHINE

Broken hearts aren't broken, they just haven't been filled yet. Realize that you have a chance to make something brand new with your life. There's a chance to meet someone new, to learn about yourself, and build character.

Focus on what CAN happen, not what HAS happened.

2. MAKE A CLEAN BREAK

Clean break means clean break. Take all the items that remind you of your lost love and put them in a non-labeled box. You must remove all the things that remind you of your lover and let them sit.

You may want to hold onto the box in case there are things in there that your lover wants returned.

3. REALIZE THAT YOUR EMOTIONS ARE IN YOUR HEAD

This part is a tough one. You must understand that the feelings you have are the product of nerve impulses, neurochemicals, and brain function. Everything you experience from a break-up, the pain, the lingering thoughts, the jealousy; are a product of your emotions. As they say, the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

4. FIND SOMEONE WHO WILL LISTEN TO YOUR COMPLAINTS

Talk to your best friend about this. Talk to your mom, your psychologist, your bartender, your priest, your blog; anyone who will listen.

One thing that helped me get through a broken heart was a journal. I kept a regular journal and decided to express my feelings through writing.

Here's my final suggestion: start a Helium account and become a great writer!

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