Embracing the Journey: Navigating Bumps and Celebrating Growth
I hear you, my friend. Life's journey can be quite the rollercoaster, full of twists, turns, and unexpected drops. But you know what? It's all part of the ride, and it's truly amazing.
The ups and downs, the victories and the challenges – they are the threads that weave our stories into something beautifully intricate and uniquely our own. And I'm right there with you, riding these waves, learning, growing, and embracing every single moment.
You see, there comes a time on this journey when you realize that the once formidable monsters in your path become mere shadows of their former selves. It's like that moment when you can relish a scoop of ice cream without fearing the aftermath, without being shackled by the negative repercussions. I've been experiencing a similar transformation with alcohol.
I remember a time when I knew I had to step away from it for the sake of my health. And I did. It felt like a breath of fresh air, like reclaiming a piece of myself. But then, I took a tentative step back, and suddenly it felt like I was teetering on the edge of that same abyss. However, this time, something was different.
Through all the self-work and the moments of self-forgiveness, I realized I still held the reins. I was still the advocate and cheerleader for myself. So, I didn't lose control. Instead, I forgave myself, and from that place of compassion, I made choices that aligned with my well-being and happiness. Why? Because deep down, I was my own best friend, my own confidant.
I've learned that making a decision that doesn't quite feel right doesn't mean the end of the world. It's a bump in the road, a piece of the puzzle that adds to the bigger picture. And that's the beauty of it. Life isn't static; it's dynamic, ever-changing, and we have the power to adapt, adjust, and keep moving forward.
I stand here before you, arms open wide, ready to guide you along your own personal journey of healing.
Currently, I find myself visiting family in the States, engaging in behaviors that I might not indulge in so frequently back home. But you know what's different this time? It's the understanding that environments can shift, circumstances can change, and yet, I can still remain true to myself. Variations of myself are perfectly fine, as long as I say so.
I give myself permission to be a different version of my awesome self when I’m living in the States with family versus when I’m living in Portugal as head of my household. I must! These are very different environments. To require me to adhere to the same lifestyle in both settings is madness and would (and has in the past) induce madness within my being.
It's a dance of trial and error, a delicate exploration of boundaries – knowing where they lie and where they can be nudged a bit further out. You see, those moments when we rub against the sharp edges of life, that's where we discover our potential to shine. Every encounter, every choice, it's all a chance to refine ourselves, to polish away the rough edges.
So, my friend, keep on this journey with your head held high. You're doing amazing. Remember, life's tapestry is woven from moments like these – moments of growth, of pushing boundaries, and of celebrating the remarkable human being you are.
Until next time, remember you're held in care.
By,
Kelsey
