Reflection - what is it and how can it benefit you? If you are at the edge of a still pond or a smooth lake- when you look down into the water, what do you see? You should see yourself looking back at you. That reflection can show you the results of the life you have lived so far. Are you happy with what you see? Do you see more joyful, pleasant experiences reflected or do you see more pain and suffering? Maybe a little of both perhaps. What do you see reflected that was within your control and what was out of your control?
Once you have taken the appropriate time to reflect on your past, the next step is to decide your goals for the future. Work to understand the moments of your past that were enjoyable and fulfilling so you can continue to celebrate those things. If you enjoy volunteering, continue that for sure. If your job is satisfying, then continue to make a difference.
What are the things you do not want to repeat? Do you have knowledge now that may prevent some of the past situations from recurring? Do you need some new knowledge to change some things from the past? Be aware of your resources and use them. Using resources like family, friends, the church, appropriate internet use, etc can make a tremendous difference in what your future looks like.
As you reflect, realize that you can determine a large part of your future by doing an accurate and fair reflection of your past.
In my experience, I have witnessed others reflecting on their past and able to make miraculous changes. I have seen people overcome addiction and abuse and be successful in their future. If they can do it, I believe that you can do it too. Believe in yourself and your capacity to create change.
As I reflect on my life, I realize that sometime life's path changes - whether we want it to or not. I have had the habit of staying focused on that original goal I had, and I was not always willing to adjust. I absolutely need to get better at that. I also see in my reflection that for most of my life I have been a genuine person - even if that means being short-tempered or impatient. I do feel that I am being the best version of myself. Tomorrow is another day with another challenge. What can you challenge yourself to do to be the best version of YOU? Perhaps, with a little adjustment, the next time you reflect on your life, you can be pleased with those experiences shining through and you will see peace much clearer than you do today.
Looking forward to the next 200 newsletters. I hope you come with me on that journey. I also hope that life takes you to an amazing future because of the choices you make today.
