Processing the Past

“Let your past be used to refine you, never to define you."

Alism

To define means to “to determine the limits or nature of; describe exactly; or to state the meaning of”[i]  In life we have a tendency to allow our past history, actions, circumstances, relationships, mistakes, mishaps, decisions (must I go on) to describe us, determining our limits and/or nature.  This faulty belief system enables your past to stagnate your present and stifle the hope of a brighter future.

However, to refine means to “to free from impurities; to make more polished or elegant”.[ii]  That’s all we should allow our past to do…to make us better instead of bitter.  Our past can be seen as our refinery process...what we must go through to be what has been ordered, planned and predestined.

For instance, how would you like to go to a restaurant for breakfast, order scrambled eggs and receive an unbroken, white egg on your plate?  Of course you would not crack the egg open and begin to eat it raw because that is NOT what you ordered.  In order for you to enjoy scrambled eggs, the egg must be broken, beaten with a fork, mixed with some milk, salt, and pepper, and then placed in a hot pan to be cooked.  That’s a process the egg must endure to be in the condition you ordered. 

Your past condition and present circumstances are the prerequisites in your process of being what was divinely ordered.  Don’t deny yourself of the privilege of embracing the process.  The past is to refine you, not define you.  To make you better, not bitter.  Learn from the process and embrace the journey.  It is that refining process that gives your life credence and value.   

Aim High…

© 2012 Aldean Pearson

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Aldean “Al” Pearson is a Professional Speaker, Trainer, and Growth Coach.  He is the Co-Founder of the LĪVE! movement, a speaking, training and coaching organization committed to developing extraordinary people, families, and businesses. His “up-front and candid,” yet at times humorous approach empowers his clients and audiences to look past their limitations to find the hidden gems of capability within. He is married with twin boy and girl. 
Contact: AlPearson1@gmail.com

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[i] Webster’s New World Dictionary, Fourth Edition;  Wiley Publishing, Inc.  2003.

[ii] Webster’s New World Dictionary, Fourth Edition;  Wiley Publishing, Inc.  2003.