Letters from A Better Me

90-Day A Better Me Letters Series

Part II: A Journey of Perspective

What Launches Us Forward: The Stable Foundation

Day 37: Accepting My Lessons from the Past

Dear Universe,

I’ve made a lot of choices in my life. I’ve experienced great joys and excruciating pain.  I’ve had things happen to me that tested my courage, strength, will, and perseverance.  What I realize now is that every single experience was necessary for my development into the person I am now. The most challenging experiences gave me great compassion for other individuals experiencing similar experiences. I learned how strong I really am and how no matter what I went through—I’m still here. I know there is a reason and I trust that learning from my experiences will not only help me, but I will be a better partner, friend, family member, co-worker, and leader.

By becoming aware of what I’m responsible for in the past is key. No one can make me feel, think, act, or react a specific way. I made choices. I can accept the choices I’ve made and learn the lesson from the experiences. I can show respect for others who choose to take responsibility for their choices too. I can accept our humanness.

As for the people who acted against me, I know that’s not really what they were doing. They were acting against themselves. I’m not responsible for what they feel, believe or think. I’m not responsible for how they act or react. That is on them. What is on me is the energy I continue to contribute to their behavior. If I’m carrying them around with me when they are not in front of me or in my life—That is my stuff. I’m not going to blame myself or them, I’m just going to take the actions that are necessary to take care of myself. If that means I report a problem, I’ll do it. If that means I walk away, I’ll do it. If that means I dig deep and show them compassion, I’ll do it. Whatever feels the best in the moment for my self-care is what I’ll do.

By accepting the lessons from my past, even if it was an hour, day, or week ago, I learn and I grow. I see options instead of traps. I see light instead of dark. I see my empowered self instead of my victim self. I’m not going to beat myself up over the experiences I’ve had, because without them, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

I’m grateful to have taken chances, learned from challenges, and prospered in the knowledge that I’m here living life from a loving place. By accepting my past I open the door to accept others for being who they are too.

With Love and Gratitude,

A Better Me

Rachael Wolff ©2019

Please click here to read today’s installment of the 90-Day A Better Me Series “Accepting Our Pasts”