Lighting the Dark Past

 Your word is a Lamp to my feet and a Light to my path.   Psalm 119:105

I often hear just what I need to hear from the mouths of others. I believe this is one way that my Creator speaks to me. Is it not therefore likely that I can be that conduit for others? When I’ve learned how to shine a light on those things I’ve tried to hide, I can more effectively be of service to another. 

Light exposes; darkness conceals. I’m learning every day to have the courage to look squarely at how my words,  actions, or inactions have harmed others. I’m then more able to see those deficits of selfishness, self-pity,  resentments, and dishonesty, and face them down. This isn’t possible without willingness, humility, openness, and honesty. I can slowly learn to empty out that scary, dark closet full of shame, sweep away the detritus, clear the cobwebs, and find my self-worth.

When I listen to others share their experience, strength, and hope, I hear the similarities in their stories. I relate to the whys and hows, and I learn how to navigate my own path. I see that perfection is not the goal; living my best life doesn’t need an artificial destination. All I have to to is, as Ram Dass said, “Be here now.”

The darkness in my past no longer defines me to the degree it once did. It’s a process. If I remain willing to do the work, the Light will show me the way.


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