Happy New Year, sisters! We are in March already …how time flies. Are we still on track to reach our goals planned just two months ago? Today let’s chat about baggage that we don’t want to bring into 2019…

Ever been in an unhealthy cycle with something or someone you know in your heart of hearts is no good for you, maybe destroying you physically, emotionally, spiritually but for some unexplainable reason you keep returning?

Maybe you feel like you’re on a perpetual merry-go-round that never stops?  How can you change an experience, a habit, a situation from bad to better? 

One day, one decision, one moment at a time… 

I have a copy of the following short story by Portia Nelson pinned to the wall of my cubicle at work that recite when I feel I am getting stuck or sinking in quicksand:

Autobiography in Five Short Chapters

I

I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk
I fall in.
I am lost ... I am helpless.
It isn't my fault.
It takes me forever to find a way out.

II

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don't see it.
I fall in again.
I can't believe I am in the same place
but, it isn't my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

III

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in ... it's a habit.
my eyes are open
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

IV

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

V

I walk down another street.

Copyright (c) 1993, by Portia Nelson from the book There's A Hole in My Sidewalk.

One of the most important tips for moving from to distress to joy is recognizing when you are in an unhealthy environment, relationship, job, mindset and then deciding to stop engaging.

What I love about Ms. Nelson’s story is the simplicity of the journey to wholeness expressed in five short chapters:

1.       Recognizing there is something wrong

2.       Identifying the issue

3.       Admitting responsibility for myself and my actions

4.       Deciding the make a change

5.       Taking a different action

In reality, each of us navigate through each one of those stages at whatever pace our hearts allow.    The journey is always easier when you have a companion, someone to share your ups, downs, fears, and joys with in an open and authentic way. It’s terrifying to be vulnerable and open a wounded heart to others.  But believe me the effort is Worth. Every.Moment.

As we settle into a New Year, a New Season, a New Start; if there is something you know in your heart you need do, I pray you are able to take the risk to open your heart and soul to possibilities untold.

Be Whole.