We all have a story about our lives that we have been carrying around, about who we are and why we are that way. A lot of the time we place blame or give credit to someone else.
Writer Brene Brown said, “When we deny the story (we tell), it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending.”
How can we take charge of our life story? We can reframe it.
When we place a new frame on an old painting, it often looks brighter and clearer. Reframing the experiences of our past as we tell it can change our experience of our present time.
Instead of talking about ourselves as being the victim of circumstances, we see ourselves as the one who made it through.
This is the truth no matter how we hold it. Instead of never being enough, we are the ones who constantly worked to better ourselves and to grow into who we are today. We can embrace our imperfections as part of our unique journey by understanding that they add depth and resilience to our character.
By recognizing our value along with our imperfections, we become a well-rounded human being.
Author Louise Hay said, “You’ve been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.”
People, like plants, grow in the light and when they are nourished. We are the ones to bring the light of acceptance and approval to ourselves and others.
Ultimately, our narrative is ours to craft. By reframing our experiences and shifting our perspective, we transform our life story from one of victimhood and inadequacy to one of resilience, growth and continuous self-improvement. We become the authors of our destiny, capable of shaping a story that reflects our true potential and strength.
By reframing what we have experienced, each of us can choose to let go of the past and bring new meaning into our present. By doing so we shape the future. Our future is bright with promise and hope.
The Rev. Linda McNamar is a Laguna Woods Village resident.