Finding meaning gives direction and motivation, a reason for being that stimulates creativity, optimism, strength and well-being. This is seen in the word remission, used to describe a period of recovery, when an illness or disease diminishes. A patient is described as being in remission when their symptoms abate. In other words, disease can diminish when we find a deeper meaning or purpose in our lives. Remission also means forgiveness, implying that healing can occur through accepting ourselves and our behaviour and releasing our guilt, or through accepting and forgiving another and releasing blame.
Remission arises through a blend of responsibility and passivity.
It is essential that we take responsibility for our own behaviour, actions, words, thoughts and lifestyle. No one else can do this for us. Taking responsibility means acknowledging that healing comes from within. We can then work with others to find the best way to promote our health. This may involve taking medication or having surgery, but it can also involve meditation, group therapy or dance classes.