Posted on July 31, 2025

As we step into a new season of growth and connection at 517 Counseling and Consulting, we want to begin with something foundational to our mission: honoring our feelings.

In our fast-paced world, we are often encouraged to "stay positive," "move on," or "be strong." While resilience is valuable, these messages can sometimes lead us to suppress or overlook what we are truly experiencing inside. But emotions, all of them, have value. They are messengers, teachers, and sometimes the first step toward healing.

Why It Matters

When we allow ourselves to feel fully, such as joy, sadness, anger, fear, confusion, and excitement, we give ourselves permission to be fully human. Honoring our feelings means:

• Acknowledging our emotions without judgment;
• Accepting that it is okay not to be okay;
• Understanding that feelings are not facts, but they are real and valid;
• Trusting that moving through emotions is healthier than avoiding them.

It Is Not Always Comfortable, But It Is Always Worthwhile

Many of us were taught, directly or indirectly, to toughen up or keep it together. When we deny our emotions, they do not disappear. Instead, they may appear in other ways, such as stress, anxiety, or emotional disconnection.

Honoring our feelings means slowing down and listening to what is happening internally. This may involve journaling, talking with a trusted friend, meditating, or working with a therapist. The goal is not to remain stuck in one emotion, but to give it space to be felt and understood.

A Practice of Compassion

This is a practice. It is not something that must be done perfectly. Some days you may find it easy to connect with your emotions. Other days it may feel confusing or overwhelming. Both experiences are valid.

The key is compassion. Compassion for yourself. Compassion for others. Compassion for the emotional journey that every person is experiencing in a different way.

At 517 Counseling and Consulting, we believe healing begins when we feel seen and heard, especially by ourselves. Whether you are experiencing a moment of joy or sitting with pain, your feelings are valid. You matter.

Let us continue to build a space where it is safe to feel.

With care,

The 517 Counseling & Consulting Team.