LIFE CHANGES

Throughout my life, I have faced many troubles and challenges. 

As I look back and reflect, I can see a definite difference between the way I used to handle my difficulties in the past, to how I manage myself now. 

It's not to say, that I never go through my occasional "melt downs ..."

However, thank goodness, overall, I'm not in the same place as I was before, by all means.

In the past, I didn't really know who I was. I had a limited knowledge of who Estee is; so I used to point fingers, accuse, and blame everyone who I thought had wronged me because I never "saw" them. 

I wasn't aware of the part I played in the dynamic between others and myself. 

I was too busy thinking about how hurt I was, and how badly I felt because "they did" this or that to me.

The more I became aware of myself, with all my complexities, the more I learned about others. 

I began seeing the "bigger picture", the reality I had not been aware of before.

I discovered that once one dares to seek the truth and has a genuine intention to better one's life, he receives the strength he needs, in order to persevere through the process of change. 

Change is necessary, although many times we see it as "evil".

We fight with all our might, to avoid stepping away from our comfort zones - to change from what is familiar to us.

Although deep down inside we know, there's really no other way, if we desire to better our lives.

As the years went by, I became more connected to myself, which had brought me to the knowing that there is a "bigger plan"- there are forces governing the universe - things don't just happen. 

I believe there is a Creator (intelligent being), and that He had created this universe for the betterment of its creatures.

Therefore, everything that happens to me, even if I can't see it, happens for the best. 

Realizing this truth helps me, when I go through difficulties. 

I say to myself, there must be a good reason for me to be going through this... 

I must be in the midst of a refining process...

I look within and search for areas in my life, where I may be in need of some "tweaking".

I remind myself, stay strong,"this too shall pass". 

I thank God for the amazing people in my life - everyone needs a strong support system. 

Honestly, without them, I'd probably be lost.. 

In essence, what had changed about me most significantly, is in the way I choose to view my life.

My overall perspective had gone through a change.

I don't blame anyone. Instead, I try to understand where they are coming from - I attempt to see things from their point of view.

I live more at peace within myself, and that to me is liberating - that is true freedom.

Please share, how are you different today, than you were in the past?