Go ahead, look back

Driving through the desert, the sun setting behind us, I couldn’t help but look back.

Through my dirty window, on my iPhone, I captured this photo.

I started thinking about all of the quotes I’ve seen lately about not looking back.  Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest seem to be circulating the same sayings, all about moving forward.  While I understand the sentiment and the importance of not dwelling on the past, I think there can be something beautiful about looking back once in a while.

Life moves fast.  Really fast.  It’s easy to get caught up in our own little world and get wrapped up in the busyness of it all.  Taking a moment to reflect, a moment to pause and remember where you’ve been and what you’ve been through shouldn’t be a bad thing.

When I look back I see beautiful moments.  I see painful moments.  I see perspective, blessings, and grace.

I’m not living in the past, but I’m thankful for it.  I’m thankful for my story, grateful I’m not the same person I was ten years ago, or even yesterday.  I’m stronger and more mature.  I’m learning where true joy comes from and where it doesn’t.

Don’t dwell on the past, but don’t ignore it either.  Take a moment and pause.  See how far you’ve come.

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  • Michelle @ Eat Move Balance September 12, 2012 at 2:11 am

    Beautiful picture. Beautiful post. 🙂

  • Shelah Phillipsen September 12, 2012 at 7:15 am

    Gorgeous picture and I do also agree with you. Our past is what molded us to what we are today and also helps us learn from our mistakes if there were some.

  • April Ockerman September 12, 2012 at 7:33 am

    What a beautiful post. Thanks for sharing and the reminder that we need stop and reflect every once in awhile.

  • alece September 12, 2012 at 9:03 am

    YES.

  • Joenanna September 12, 2012 at 9:19 am

    I agree with you. Big Surprise! Looking back allows me to see where I came from to get where I am today. To use Matthew West’s words, “I’m not who I was.” To me it’s important to remember what I’ve gone through to this point. I don’t want to forget – even the painful parts. That’s what has caused growth. In that regard looking back can be a good reminder.

  • Keeley McGuire September 12, 2012 at 10:11 am

    Beautiful. So true! Thanks for the reminder. 🙂

  • Mandie September 12, 2012 at 3:38 pm

    Beautiful. I love this…so very true 🙂