I love to journal. It is the one form of expression that bears all truth. The voice of vulnerability. I am able to write myself into history. My life is my message. Do you understand how powerful that truly is? For the past 20 years I have tracked my very existence through ink and paper. I divulge my drama and dreams on a weekly basis. For me writing about my life is therapeutic. And I, for one, believe that it’s important to purposely reflect on former entries to examine personal and professional growth. A few days ago I came across an old journal entry dating back to the year 2007. Before taking a stroll down “Life Lane” I tried to envision where I was and what I was doing at that time. Once I came to the realization, I…couldn’t…even…fathom…it. I proceeded to grab a hot chocolate and curled up on the couch.

As I intensely turned each page, I realized that back then my life was somewhat in disarray! During that specific time my car was repossessed, my apartment application was denied, I owed the IRS, and I was “still” ending a very toxic relationship. I was the star of my own real life drama! The stress in my circumstances jumped off of every page. Despite the despair at that time, I continued to thank God for the slow procession of progression. I also never stopped penning my dreams. My failures fueled my purpose. One never knows the value of a moment until it becomes a distant memory.

After reading the remainder of my entries written during 2007, all I could do was thank Him for the journey! I fell to my knees in awe at the things I was able to overcome in just one year! Resilience and perseverance steered me towards success. The journey has now instilled in me more humility, sacrifice, faith, confidence, and direction. It has also uprooted my negative thinking — self-doubt, fear, and procrastination. MY JOURNEY HAS BRED A LEADER. It’s funny how while in the midst of the madness of life we cannot help but reflect on the pain, confusion, and defeat we are currently facing …but, in due time, we must understand that we will conquer our circumstance.  And then, it’s almost as if it never happened. But why? How?

It’s because at a specific moment in time you made up your mind that you were capable of change. You had to decide whether you wanted to continue existing or if you finally wanted to begin living. Because you were able to overcome, you obliterated this non-nostalgic point in time. Perception propagates prosperity! This is why journaling is so imperative. It reminds you of your strength and purpose. Purpose is the reason you journey. Passion is the fire that lights your way.

Learn to find joy in the journey. No matter what.

By Dr. Avis Foley

Co-Publisher, Purpose Weekly