Reading through old journals, so much focuses on lack of money. I express guilt for not providing enough as a single mother, anger for being abandoned by my children’s father, and shame for having to rely on others. The feelings still linger. And then I hear my father’s voice:
“The good Lord always provides.”
And I realize, he was right. Yes, I needed help at times. Yes, I worried. At the same time, my children never went without food, shelter, and love. My needs were always met – unconventionally at times – but without fail.
Worry, guilt, and shame need to step aside. Gratitude is taking over. My perception of the past has shifted to one of abundance. How blessed I have been.
Sending out a collective prayer of sincere thanks to all who have supported my journey. Hope I can do the same for others, paying it forward.
(Image my own)
What a beautiful confession and I feel certain you will continue with your move forward. When I think back, the good in my life definitely outweighed the bad.
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In survival mode, sometimes I forgot to measure.
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I’m sure I would cringe if I looked at old journals. How amazing that you see it so clearly now. Guilt wastes time anyway. Pay it forward and go forward.
Stunning artwork!
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Thanks 😊
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I suspect many of us have journals full of angst! That’s a darn good place to get it off one’s chest (even if only for a few moments). Time shapes perspectives – given time we’ll likely find ourselves helping someone else and noticing that giving feels good. Part of aging into wisdom maybe?
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Likely, Jazz. I’m glad I have been able to shift this perspective. Better late than never.
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It’s very good to hear that you’ve made your peace with your past.
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Work in progress….always. Thanks Liz.
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You’re welcome, VJ.
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What matters most is how well you walk through the fire. 👍👍👍
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Thanks Mike. Certainly got burned enough times.
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That’s how you learn, you just get burned. (Drive South).
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Thanks for sharing this VJ. Bless you.
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Thanks Keith.
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Worry and guilt corrode self-respect. Gratitude is not easy because at times it feels like settling for less. But it does bring peace and understanding.
Love this.
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Thanks Punam. I have a lot guilt for not showing gratitude when I should have. Sigh. The guilt game is hard to shake, lol.
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You are welcome, VJ.
Oh, that guilt is so difficult to shake off! But I have realised time is also a great eraser, it does erase those feelings gradually. Lol.
Don’t be too harsh with yourself. Your insights are of great help to me. I am always grateful for your presence here.
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You are sweet. Thank you.
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❤️
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This makes so much sense. My early journals are full of angst as well. I suspect emotions ran high and gratitude could have played a larger role. Well said, VJ!
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The benefit of age, I guess, lol. Thanks Sarah.
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I love this VJ. In the midst of our troubles, we only think of our problems but in retrospect, we can see how the help arrived from unexpected quarters.
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Yes. Thank you.
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You’re welcome my friend
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