When I was nine, I was “attacked” by ducks at a lake. I had fun feeding them, but, eventually, too many came too close at once, and they backed me against a tree. I fell and scraped my elbow. To this day, I’m cautious of ducks.
But just because I learned to pay more attention does not mean I have to be afraid of ducks forever. On a recent trip, I found some ducks near a pond. I filmed them, went pretty close, and even took a picture with them. I had a healthy respect for them, but I wouldn’t say I was scared.
Time does more than heal scraped elbows. It provides space to become someone new. That opportunity exists every day. We needn’t wait for years to pass. Yesterday is yesterday for a reason. And what’s bad today might turn out wonderful tomorrow.
Trauma only defines us if we refuse to let it go. Find new reasons, and pain turns into joy.
