This time of year can bring about a whole host of emotions….from being thankful and celebrating with family and friends to remembering and reflecting on those who aren’t with us. Oftentimes we also reflect on our past and all the things that have brought us to where we are today, but do you know what has brought your friends and family to where they are today? I think most of us have no idea what those around us have been through to get to today. We freely share the happy moments, but not all of the real struggles, the stories and the truth. We don’t share the things that have shaped us into who we are, what we do, why we feel the way we do, act the way we do, and persevere the way we do, and yet, I’m the biggest proponent of sharing your voice and your story. Today, I’m sharing part of my personal story. 

It’s time to embrace your past and give thanks!

 What we're talking about

• What It Means To Really Know Someone
• How Our Childhood and Past Shapes Who We Are
• Giving Thanks For The Good & Bad Experiences

What It Means To Really Know Someone

We seem to think we know each other on a deeper level than we really do, but when was the last time you sat down to listen to someone’s story? Do you know the details of their childhood? What experiences did they have? The answers to these questions are what makes up who we are today and yet we don’t take the time, make the effort or freely share these answers with one another. This past year I have reflected a lot on my childhood and how that played a role in the person I’ve become today. We need to push past the fear of judgement or rejection that could possibly come in sharing our stories and share them. 

How Our Childhood and Past Shapes Who We Are

I started therapy this year to work through issues I have stemming from my childhood. I lost my father at an early age and I have a fear of repeating the cycle I experienced with my children. It was in therapy that I learned that I had already made conscious (and unconscious) decisions to do things differently. I’ve already broken the cycle and in embracing the experiences I had growing up, I’m now able to identify exactly why I am the way I am. I’m a truth teller, a hard worker who is independent, I want my children to stand up for what is right and for others, I want them to be themselves no matter what, and I am doing my very best to be an absolutely present mom who isn’t afraid of also reaching for the stars for myself. 

Giving Thanks For The Good and Bad Experiences

We don’t have to forgive and forget, but being able to forgive is a life changing gift...for the other person and for yourself. Whatever has happened, has happened. You are not alone in your experiences and in dealing and understanding what you’ve gone through will help you understand why you do what you do, have the strength you have and are able to persevere through all of life’s ups and downs. Give yourself credit and thanks for finding the strength to continue on this journey of life. I am grateful for my mind, body and soul for moving me forward and upward in all things. 

Don’t be afraid to share your story. I want to hear it and so do others.