Saturday, September 10, 2011

Embracing the Letting Go...

Several months ago, I had to make the decision to ‘let go’ of some things.  In some instances, I had to also let go of some people in my life.  It sounds awful but let me explain what it all means.  There are many of us hanging on to situations from the past that may involve people or even things that may be causing hindrance in our lives.  I can admit that I have done that for years – until recently.  There were several mishaps in my life that made me realize presently that it was time to let go of the past and anything attached to it – things, people, and even memories.  Some memories are good but the ones that are bad and ugly are best to let go or as I often tell people – Release it! 
 
For many years, I moved on with life contemplating the thought of revisiting my past, until I came to the realization what it would do to my current state of being.  The past does not identify who I am today; rather it would heal some open wounds that still plague in my life.  I’ve been able to talk about certain incidents in my life without getting upset which has made me realize that I’m stronger and able to handle revealing more truth.  It was a means of healing, knowing where I’ve been and where I no longer choose to be.  Actually, it would help most of my family and friends to understand some of my previous actions and why I’ve chosen my current path.  A path that I’m very proud I’ve taken to finally become the person I was always meant to be.  It took some major steps in my life and deciding to ‘embrace the letting go’ for good! 
 
So, as I reflected on my life I knew that there are people today living with a secret or secrets from their very own past.  This entails fear when we withhold information about our lives. Afraid of exposing details of events that occurred that may cause potential grief.  Constantly thinking the opinions of others and protecting the guilty.  No one wants to be treated as a victim.  Instead, we all want to be respected for the courage and bravery we demonstrate when revealing the truth.  Having the faith to gracefully expose the truth and finally be healed. 
 
Although, you will never forget the ride of your life – whether it be good or bad but it no longer has to partake in your present and future happiness.  I took steps in my life to ‘embrace the letting go’ of the past and I encourage you to do the same.  As I share what I did to be completely healed, my sincere hope is that you find your way very soon too if you have not done so already. 
 
First step – Talk to someone you trust.  Whether it be a professional counselor, family member or a respected member of your church.  I entrusted an assistant Pastor at my church.  Our first meeting was scary and emotional.  But that first meeting broke the ice for several more meetings to come.  We had more sessions and she saw an improvement in me and she commended me for my courage to come forward.  She also revealed the strength I demonstrated since our first meeting.  I am proud to say that she and I have become very close friends too.  She’s been a blessing in my life and I completely trust her. 
 
 
Second step – Self-Evaluation.  Take time to reflect on what the past has done to your life.  If the past has caused you to be unpleasant toward others, make continuous bad decisions or you’re still living with bad habits and addictions, it’s time to put an end to it all.  Write down any negative feelings or actions you’ve shown throughout your life.  I’m sure it has caused you to live a life with negative results.  Make a decision to reverse it to a positive.  Start living life in a positive realm and watch your life transform for the better. 
 
Third step – Forgiveness.  It’s time to forgive yourself for any hurt you may have caused onto others due to what you’ve experienced in your past.  We have all at some point in our lives acted out with hurt we’ve experienced.  So, start by forgiving yourself first to start the process of healing.  Next, forgive those who may have hurt you in the past.  It can be difficult to forgive someone who has caused harm to you directly, but forgiveness is inevitable and is another step in your healing process.  Forgiveness for myself and others has brought peace and joy in my life.  I can now confess that I’ve been healed and transformed.  I’m no longer a product of my past. 
 
      Sins confessed you must forget;
      Look not back to yesterday-
      Full of failure and regret;
      Look ahead and seek God’s way.
                                ~D. De Haan
 
       Don’t let yesterday’s failures bankrupt tomorrow’s efforts.
                                                       ~RBC Ministries
 
Fourth step – Release it!  When I decided to finally ‘let go’ of my past I knew it was the best decision I’ve made in a long time.  I stayed in prayer throughout this process and released it to God.  It was no longer my burden.  I’ve released it and embraced a new beginning in my life.  Releasing and letting it go allows you to move forward with your life and be free of the past.  I can now confess that I’m no longer a victim instead a Victor!  And you too can be a Victor and experience the Victory in your life. 
 
There’s so much more to life then living in rewind.  Make a decision to let go and move forward with your life. 
 
Do you have a past that is difficult to let go and don’t know how?  Or have you found a way to heal, let go and move forward with your life?  Please share the steps you took to overcome that barrier in your life.