Day 24 of Embracing the wonders of life!

While walking in the mountains of Germany—what we Dutch often consider mountains—I encountered a beautiful snail. It moved slowly, carrying its exquisite home on its back. During my holiday, reflecting on a hectic year, I thought about the coaching I received over the past year and a half. One of the most valuable lessons I learned is that we all carry our legacy with us, much like the snail carries its home.

Our experiences, both good and bad, shape who we are. These experiences, whether the encouragement from our parents or the lessons from school, influence our behavior. However, they don't have to control us. It's crucial to recognize what has shaped us because these experiences are a part of us. Yet, we have the power to decide how they affect our lives.

It all starts with acceptance. Once we accept our past, the house we carry with us no longer feels like a burden. Instead, it becomes a part of us that has helped shape our identity but doesn't define us. We can train ourselves to respond differently, to make choices that reflect who we want to be rather than who we've been conditioned to be.

So, as you go through life, remember to embrace your experiences. They are part of your unique journey, but they don't have to dictate your future. Accept your past, learn from it, and let it guide you without letting it control you. This way, you can move forward with the same grace and purpose as the snail, carrying your home with pride.