One of the things I am constantly asked about in my work is how to move beyond a difficult relationship; and how to find closure.

Endings can be one of the most painful parts of life, and very often people either aren’t around or won’t give us the closure we need to “let go” of a relationship or situation. The fact of the matter is that we don’t have to have the participation of someone else to let go – we can create closure for ourselves when we need to.

One of the ways this can be done is through ritual. I am not suggesting that anyone needs to run out and become a Wiccan or anything of the sort (not that there’s anything wrong with Wiccans!) It’s just that there is a reason why ritual has been a part of human behavior in one form or another for all of history. It’s because it is comforting, and it can change our lives.

Here’s a short, easy ritual, to help you “let go” of a situation or relationship that you feel you are too attached to. Take a few moments to calm your mind. Put on music that is soft, and soothing. Picture the person in your minds eye that you wish to let go of, and visualize them surrounded by love and white light.

This can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, as long as you like. Then light a candle -any candle. You don’t have to buy some sort of special healing candle: the important thing is the flame.

If you have a shallow dish nearby, one that is not flammable, you can take a piece of paper and write the person’s name down. (Or a phrase that is significant to you, such as “my relationship with Bob.”) take a few minutes to say to yourself, “I am now letting go of this connection.”

let that sink in for a moment, and then burn the paper.

A simple thing like this can truly make a difference to the energetic bonds between people. If you’re struggling to let go, give it a try.

Remember that we always have the answers we need…and you CAN let go, if you truly need to do so.

I hope this helps someone. Have you ever used a ritual like this?