About six years ago, long before this blog existed, I wrote a letter to my past. Today, I found that letter and want to share it with you.
You see, growing up I was the creator of all my suffering. It wasn't until my mid-twenties when I recognized that in order for things to get better, I had to get better.
Out of this realization came an appreciation for my past and everything it taught me. When I could finally look back with clearer, wiser eyes, the value of my painful past was revealed.
You may notice from the letter that my writing has evolved quite a bit since then. I even chuckled a bit when I read it today.
However, I still thought it would be fun to share with you, because you have a past as well. I hope you also take the time to honor it, and perhaps write about it like I did. If you're not sure what to write, think about the following questions:
What are you still holding on to from the past?
What are you grateful for in your past?
What did you learn from your past that you wouldn't have learned otherwise?
How will you honor your past going forward?
For those who struggle with the past, this one's for you.
Dear Past,
Having the childhood and young adulthood that I had is a GREAT GIFT. It taught me everything about how I ought NOT to live if I want to truly live a great life, and it's propelled me and driven me forward so hard to find the answers on HOW TO live an extraordinary life. Without an upbringing of no self-advocacy, choosing to be in bad states, and holding on to my limiting beliefs, I would not be so fucking DRIVEN to grow and become the man I'm truly destined to become.
Thank you, past, for showing me the right way to live. Truth be told, we will never meet again. You taught me a lot, especially looking back, but I'm afraid you're no longer needed. Please know that I appreciate every single thing, every problem, challenge, difficult situation, and wonderful memory you provided me, for without all of that, who knows where I'd be today. And knowing where I stand today, right now, and what tomorrow has in store, I'm pretty fucking excited!!!
Again, thank you for being a gift. I will surely be using you and everything you've given me as I shoot off at full tilt into the future, with a huge smile on my face and a heart full of gratitude.
Peace, love, and God bless!
Gabe Orlowitz
The creator of my own destiny
Here's the original letter from six years ago:
