It’s important to look back in history. We need to know where we’ve been, learn from past mistakes, and appreciate that we’ve made it this far. But what if we look back too often, so often that we aren’t living in the present?
Last night I spent some time talking to a good friend of mine. We discussed life and it’s hardships. On my way home I prayed to God and just talked to him about when life seemed easier. I don’t know whether the next thought just struck me or God wanted send me a reminder. I thought, “Wait! My life is no more difficult now than my childhood was. Life wasn’t easier.” Like many people’s childhood mine wasn’t always rosy and happy. We tend to remember the good times and forget the times that aren’t so good. I reminded myself life has always been hard and I’ve always been thankful for the blessings along with the hardships. All the events in life have made me who I am.
As these thoughts went through my mind I looked in my rear view mirror to switch lanes. Then an idea formed in my mind. I have to use my mirror to look behind me in order to drive safely; however, I can’t continue to look back otherwise I will wreck. I believe this is like life; it’s important that we look back but if we continue looking back we sacrifice the life we’re living now.
If we live in the past we are cheating ourselves of the present, we are robbing our family and friends of us, and we are idolizing those rose-colored memories over everything else. Look back on the past, appreciate where it has brought you! Live in the now! After all you need to make more memories that you can look back on in the future! If life is hard now know that this moment will help build your character. Comparing your hardships now to your happy memories won’t help change your situation. Allow the past to help you strive not hinder you!
I feel I needed to go through this process of thinking so that I may learn this lesson personally.
Echoes of Life 