Blessings in Self-Reflection

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^{In the words of Chronixx,
"When I look at where I'm coming from, I know I'm blessed."}

^{And in the words of Hulvey,
"& it's a blessing just to think that I can THINK about it"
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There's something special about reflecting on our lives, whether it's through memories, writing, artwork, photos or videos. As a child, I recall spending hours flipping through the gigantic photo albums tucked away in the china cabinet. My mother, always armed with a camera, ensured every event, family gathering, vacation, or a random Tuesday at home was documented. She didn't skimp on processing camera film. Naturally, her dedication to documenting our lives inspired my own passion for the same.

Checking the archives can be risky sometimes, though. Some moments might be beautiful and cathartic, others may be heavy and triggering. If we're not careful, we get stuck in that time if we don't know when or how to release it. We may also mistakenly think we can erase memories by avoiding them, but they simply linger in another dark and dusty cabinet (in the spirit), until we confront them (and seek deliverance).

My phone notes are currently at 4256 entries, and counting.  I document random ideas, dreams, experiences, reflections, quotes, verses, letters to myself or others, and more. Sharing experiences or ideas is vital to our humanity (and even our creativity). There's a different level of freedom that occurs when we genuinely share our light, DESPITE the world's desperate attempts to extinguish it.  

I sometimes revisit old notes to gain insight into my growth. In 2017 I wrote my plans to start a blog. The subtle difference is my intention behind my desire to write and the language shows my influence at the time.

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In 2017, my desire to create a blog likely stemmed from a hurtful season of my life. For a few years I lived in total confusion and I felt so misunderstood. I attempted to find "comfort" through personality tests, astrology, and different new-age systems that made me feel understood (and made me lean on my own understanding). I found temporary relief in those things and thought maybe I could help others as well. What I was actually seeking was some form of community, but what I needed was guidance and grace.

Fast forward. Last year (October 2022), I asked God to reeeeally search my heart. I prayed for clarity. I was and continue to be humbled beyond measure. I will share my testimony in another post. As someone who was deeply deceived, God's faithfulness took me out of the depths of spiritual death. Being able to reflect on this change brings me so much joy!!!! 🥹 ("It's a blessing just to think that I can think about it").

^{“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb. 4:12).}

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Self-Reflection

1. ^{When you reflect on past entries in your journals or notes, how have you seen yourself grow? What are the patterns or recurring themes?}
2. ^{When you think about your current goals, what’s the deeper intention behind them? Is it coming from a place of healing, growth, or something else?}
3. ^{In what ways do you channel your emotions and experiences creatively—through writing, art, photography, or other forms?}

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