Embracing Growth and Responsibility with Self-Awareness

This past year has been a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth. I've learned the hard way that trying to meet every need, at the cost of my own identity, is a path to losing oneself. Constantly striving to please others often leads to a loss of authenticity, which I experienced firsthand.

However, these challenges served as pivotal learning experiences. They included therapy, health changes, and business challenges, each teaching me more about myself. I recognize my role in these experiences, seeing them as opportunities for growth and introspection.

A significant part of this journey has been understanding my psychological archetype, attachment style, and the types of trauma I've experienced and still stuugle to understand. Recognizing these aspects of my psyche has been crucial in understanding how my past experiences shape my relationships and personal growth.

Initially, I was focused on achieving undefined goals, seeking external validation instead of internal fulfillment. A friend's simple yet profound insight about faith and personal growth was a turning point for me. I will never be or get more saved than when I accepted Christ.

My military service of 25 years taught me resilience and determination. At my retirement, I finally embraced my true self, committing to serve God and the community authentically. The subsequent months have been a period of readjustment, facing old habits, and reaffirming my trust in God.

I've learned the value of confronting challenges in relationships instead of escaping at the first sign of trouble. Trust, I realized, is a fundamental element of love. Now, I'm more open to addressing issues rather than avoiding them.

An important lesson for me has been taking responsibility for my actions and their impacts.

Part of this process involves understanding that healing and growth are personal responsibilities. This includes learning about my archetype, recognizing my attachment style, and confronting the traumas I've endured. I now see that it's never too late to apologize, to forgive, and to grow. Although some relationships may not be restored, the journey of self-improvement and acceptance is invaluable.

Moving forward, I am committed to living authentically, serving others sincerely, and embracing life and love fully. This journey is not just about personal fulfillment; it's about positively impacting the lives of those around me.

I am grateful for these lessons and the growth I've achieved. With a deeper understanding of my archetype, attachment style, and personal traumas, I look to the future with hope and a readiness to embrace all that life offers.

Biblical Reflection

Romans 12:2 (NIV):

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Three points to drive the message home based on this verse:

1. Embrace Personal Transformation: This verse encourages us not to be swayed by external pressures or societal norms, but rather to focus on internal growth and transformation. It’s about understanding and embracing your unique identity, your psychological archetype, and addressing your personal traumas and attachment styles.

2. Renewal of Mind for Clarity and Purpose: Renewing your mind implies a continuous process of learning, unlearning, and relearning. This includes acknowledging past mistakes, understanding your behavior patterns, and aligning your actions with your true self. It’s about gaining clarity on what truly matters to you and aligning your life with those values.

3. Understanding and Fulfilling God’s Will: The verse concludes with the promise of understanding God’s will when we transform and renew our minds. This suggests that self-awareness and personal growth lead us closer to realizing our purpose as envisioned by God. It’s about finding a balance between personal desires and the higher purpose that guides our existence.

Be Blessed

The MenUStree