I wrote my life story this week. I listed important events, people who have influenced me, and environments in each segment of my life (pre-school, elementary years, jr & sr. high, young adult, young married, young family, career years, growing up years, and the present). It really helped me define some of the reasons for my negative emotions and hurts. It made me appreciate so many people who encouraged God's gifts in my life along the way. It gave me an clearer understanding of why I am the way I am now. It showed me what characteristics I want to cherish...and which ones I want to change...and can change.

My life story time line was one exercise in creating what goals I want to steer towards now...and what boundaries I need to build to protect those goals.

Facing our pain, rather than running away from it, makes spiritual growth and emotional well-being possible. That's what I'm going to do...grow and become healthier!!! Remembering to be grateful for the good parts of our life gives us more to praise God for!

I'm glad I made my life time line.