"FORGETTING WHAT LIES BEHIND"
We repeat the same mistakes. We make similar choices. We become defined by what we do and what we did, and sometimes, what our family is known for.
But we are worth something more.
In every person's past there is a story-- there lay moments where dreams are born and people scream, "YES!"
..... but, there are also moments when people feel so lost, scared, and alone......
I just want you to know. YOU are worth something more.
YOU are worth something more than all the mistakes, the heartbreak, and the hurt that you've gone through. (Yes, heartbreak and hurt are two different things).
We are not defined by who others say we are, but by what we choose to do about our circumstances.
So, it's your choice.
You can leave the past behind and move forward. It takes time....I can assure you, yes, it takes time. But eventually you'll be "old" like me and the memories will heal better.
Replace the bad memories with good ones, when you can. There's one song that I have a memory of making a music video with two friends. Two friends who would later walk away from me, wounding me deeply. Luckily, years afterwards I would meet a new friend and we would create a different kind of dance video to the same song.
You can't move forward if you keep one foot in the past.
I had written a letter that I never sent, for a boy that broke my heart, when I was in high school. Caught up wondering about him, I texted him while in college. I got the reply: "this number has changed." That was the same reply I had gotten in high school when I tried to text him. Knowing his character, I doubted that was him replying, but it was probably for the best that we didn't get back in touch. I decided that I would burn that letter and finally let go of my memories of him. Eventually, my path would cross with a different young man who would stick by my side, even when the going gets tough.
Philippians 3: 13-14
13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Whatever has broken your heart, you are not alone and you are not forgotten. Leave it all behind. Surrender it to the arms of Jesus.
Sometimes, it is important to remember the past. It makes us stronger, braver, and smarter. But mostly, it is better to let go. Close your eyes, take a breath, and open up your palms. Give this all to God. Imagine a thousand white butterflies flying out from your open hands, dashing up into a soft blue sky, bringing your wish up to Him. Then, listen to this song that I love, and leave it all behind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TNJXZWTV8I
I know it's not easy to let go. But, it is one way to give God control of your life. Remember that everything that has happened to you, shapes you into the person He wants you to become.
If my words have been meaningful to you or helped you any, leave a comment. God bless. -Starr
