Facing and Dealing with Personal Loss

In his mid-20’s, C.G. Jung was given a copy of Sigmund Freud’s newly published book, The Interpretation of Dreams. Jung devoured the material since at the time there was nothing like it to be found. While reading this amazing book, Jung began corresponding with Freud and their respective letters to each other led to a meeting in 1907. Jung describes their 13 hour meeting as nothing less than phenomenal. Over the next 5 years, from 2007-2012, the two of them worked together to analyze each other’s dreams. In his Autobiography Memories, Dreams, Reflections, Jung dedicated two chapters to Freud, thanking him for his inspiring work and theories. But, he also made it clear that his parting with Freud came because he did not want to support some of Freud’s more controversial theories. Enraged at Jung’s audacity for not supporting all of his theories, Freud broke off their personal friendship and professional relationship.

After their parting, Jung went through what he described as a dark night of the soul for 5 years. But it was during this grieving and soul searching period he discovered ‘amazing things’ about himself, his relationship with his wife, and his work with his clients. These ‘things’ became the building blocks of his creative theories which included writings about the collective unconscious, archetypes, symbolism, psychic energy, synchronicity, alchemy, psychological complexes, and the spiritual and religious dimensions of the psyche. In short, the loss became the driving force for Jung to delve into the realm of his own unconscious and to create the theories for which he would become renowned.

In 1916, Jung was contacted by writer Hermann Hesse who was going through considerable depression regarding the death of his father, the serious illness of his son, and the paralyzing mental illness of his wife. Hesse worked with Jung for 2 years, immersing himself into Jung’s unique style of dream work and active imagination wherein Hesse was guided to amplify, interpret, and integrate the symbolism in his dreams. As a result, Hesse again reached new heights of creativity in his thinking and writing and had two outstanding books published that today remain literary classics: Demian and Siddhartha.

Jung’s loss of Freud’s friendship and Hesse’s losses are important reminders that loss comes to everyone, young and old, rich and poor, well-known and anonymous.  Divorce, separation, death, illness, financial challenge, unanticipated change, and a variety of other losses are all part of the drama and unfolding of life. We cannot shield ourselves from loss and the accompanying pain and grief but like Jung and Hesse, perhaps loss may miraculously open the way for a more challenging and perhaps fulfilling life.

In facing and dealing with the emotional turmoil of a loss, you may discover inspiring books or philosophies that miraculously reshape your perception and thinking. During your loss a dream or series of dreams may give you important spiritual guidance. Your loss may open a door to a new and creative way of expressing yourself. In seeking help for your loss you may discover amazing resources that help you heal.