Two years ago I was in the exact location I am now: a small lakeside community in the mountains with the same friend and our children. This vacation, like all life experiences, is a notch on my timeline. With all the parallels this vacation to the one in 2010, I keep looking back to the similar notch made two years ago and comparing life then to what it is now.
This week as we hiked my favorite state park with our kids, I was thinking about a discussion I had with AC the last time we were in this park together. We had taken a break, lying on the rocks as the kids played in the water. In that discussion I shared my fears and feelings of uncertainty with my life and what was happening at that moment in time.
Two years ago:
- I had been separated two years, but was stalled and frustrated with divorce negotiations.
- A relationship I was in was was causing anxiety and was overdue to end.
- Photography school was to begin in two months, but I was unsure it was a good decision.
With the negotiations in limbo, so was I with so many aspects of my life; my future was uncertain. I enjoyed the week with my friend and our children, but it was an intense, stressful time in my life.
Two years later:
- The ex and I survived divorce negotiations unscathed and remain friends.
- There have been many dates, a few serious relationships, and breakups. Good and bad–all have been great lessons.
- I have a business I am passionate about, waking each morning excited about my workday.
As AC and I were lying on the rocks this week there was no discussion about my worries, being unhappy in a relationship, or any challenge in my life. Being here again, I have thought about the changes in my life since our last visit; it has given me a tremendous amount of satisfaction because I have created a wonderful life for myself and the kids.
I am happy.
My life is in order.
The future is no longer scary.
Can you look back on your timeline and see progress?
If not, what can you do to make a change?
Love this post, really makes you stop and think of how different things are now.
Thanks Lizzy. I was happy with what I discovered on vacation.
Wow, I really like the idea of looking back and seeing where we were in our lives to see how far we have come. In the day-to-day, it can be difficult to see all the changes and feel discouraged. But if we go back 2 years, 6 months, or 10 years, things would likely be very eye-opening.
It gave me a special perspective being in the same place I was two years ago with the same people. It led to a lot of reflection.
When I look back on my life two years ago, it makes me want to cry. I’ve come a long way and so has the rest of my family. I am happy that the past two years have been a step in the right direction for you as well!
It’s great to see progress, isn’t it? Congrats to you as well.
Wonderful post mate. I am happy to see your adaption.
Thank you! I am happy to find myself in this place–finally.
I did the very same thing this week. It’s a lovely way to reevaluate where you are, especially if you need to be reminded of the good. So happy for you that this time around, your vacation is a truly relaxing experience, and that your life is positive and rewarding. You deserve it. 🙂
Thank you. You deserve the best as well, Nicole!