The vantage point changes with time. I would call 2006 a traumatic year. It was the year I was charged with Intellectual Dishonesty at Law School, the year I lost my voice and couldn't self advocate and it was the year I asked myself the big question "Who am I?"
When I would recall that event over the next few years I would cringe. A mixture of shame and disappointment in the early days were quickly replaced with something of value. The disaster became the springboard for a new direction in life.
Shame was replaced with understanding what came before, the role of various actors and my own inability to process a disability that I had not come to terms with.
We can get stuck in these places. If a past event is nipping you in the rear, here's what worked for me.
1. Share your story with someone who will help you to process. It can be a coach or a counsellor. Believe me, processing helps to put past disappointments into perspective.
2. Surround yourself with imperfect people - they will love you in spite of.
3. Forgive yourself, the others involved. Find a way to make that happen - grudges hold you back.
Live the life you're given without regret.
