Listen Linda

Changing my life has been a slow, unpredictable, yet profoundly meaningful journey. And I’m still traveling. I’ve come to understand that even though I may not see it, everything unfolds in God’s timing, guided by his divine plan. This does bring me some peace. I do cherish the patience he’s instilled in me, even though I may not show it.  It’s a quiet strength to “trust the process”. And patience is trusting time and not fighting it.

There is endurance in the ability to navigate challenges without being consumed by them. I’ve had to remain calm, steady, and unwavering in the face of frustrations, setbacks, and even disappointments.  Recovery isn’t a straight road; it’s filled with twists and turns and steep climbs, uncharted territories… But endurance and patience together help me stay grounded, even when the journey feels long, frustrating, and ever so demanding.

I must remind myself to stay present in the now. To embrace each moment instead of rushing towards the next milestone, ever so quickly. I ever so often find that I want to fast-forward through the tough parts, eager to reach an absolute resolution. But to only be slowed down. God’s slowed me down for a reason…and I don’t know what that reason is. But I do know that I can appreciate my small victories. These moments of celebration, of stillness, makes this journey…my journey ever more sacred.

Through patience, I’ve also learned the power of grace—the ability to treat myself with compassion and understanding. I’ve forgiven my past self, releasing shame, and guilt that once weighed me down. Because healing isn’t about moving forward; it’s about letting go—of resentment, of bitterness, of identities that no longer serve me. Burning the bridges that no longer hold a proper direction. Finding my true North. Which, I’m still looking. This past of mine may have shaped me, but it will never in a million years define me.

Giving myself grace has helped me find some kind of emotional balance, the kind that nurtures both peace and resilience. In adversity, I choose contentment. In moments of uncertainty…which are many. I need to remember to choose trust. To trust my God’s plans, will for me…ect. Because patience and grace are not just virtues; they are lifelines.  And that I must grow through challenges and not be consumed by them.

Transformation is not just about the external changes I make, it’s about the inner shift, the rewiring of the mind, heart, and spirit to truly embrace growth. Because even my struggles contain beauty. These moments of waiting have purpose and meaning. And giving myself grace is the ultimate key to healing—it’s the act of choosing love over judgement, acceptance over regret. Trust overall. Because my journey isn’t just about change, it’s about becoming whole, becoming free, becoming who I was always meant to be.