While it’s good we embark on the journey of self-discovery and Unbind ourselves from the past, sometimes we can get ahead of ourselves.

An important lesson came to me recently, that on our journey, we need to return to the basics and remind ourselves who we are and find our path that leads us to our dreams.

Yesterday, I found myself immersed in deep self-reflection, pondering the question: “What now?” Frustrated by my perception of socially conditioned limitations and the lingering sense of unfulfilled aspirations — and by the way, this is common for finding your life after trauma — I couldn’t help but wonder: What lies ahead in the next four decades of my life?

Resilient, I moved one step aside, my focus shifting from the nearly imperceptible trigger. The growing tension between my shoulder blades held my attention as I vocally rejected the trigger and refused out loud to resign to an idle existence, merely watching life pass me by from the comfort of an easy chair.

Trauma has the power to change you, but not always in the negative way familiar to so many. It’s subtle with triggers; some that instill within you a strength you never knew you possessed. It will ignite courage, and awaken a heightened sense of consciousness. From the flames of adversity, you emerge, empowered with the mindfulness of the present moment.

Your experiences have equipped you to embrace the person you were destined to become, not the image imposed upon you by others.

So, what will you do with this fire burning within you?

Don’t let the past extinguish your fire.

Dream boldly. Take action. Create passionately. Love fiercely. Embrace risks. Paint your life with vibrant hues. Express yourself freely. Dare to be vulnerable. Explore the unknown. Never cease to learn. Keep moving forward. Embrace every experience. Allow yourself to heal. Continuously grow and evolve. Stay curious. Unlock your true potential. Unleash your boundless creativity.

The journey ahead is yours to create. Seize it with unwavering determination and let your fire illuminate the path to your dreams.