GHOSTS OF THE PAST… SKELETONS IN YOUR CLOSET: UNVEILING THE BURDENS WE CARRY
By Shelley Whizin
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Transformational life coach Shelley Whizin shares advice on getting rid of personal baggage to move forward in life and live in the positive present moment. Watch here in the YouTube player.
“Every day is Halloween, isn’t it? For some of us.” Tim Burton
BOOOOOOOO!!!!!! WATCH OUT!!!! GHOSTS, GOBLINS, and SKELETONS may be lurking about! Are you scared?
It is October, and yes, it’s Halloween, the month of ghosts, goblins, and skeletons. So, are there ghosts, goblins, and skeletons from the past haunting you and keeping you from living a fulfilled and joyful life now? Here we will explore the profound impact of our past on our present and delve into some steps we can take to free ourselves from the shackles of these haunting memories.
1. Recognize the Power of the Past. Let’s face it, all our past experiences shape who we are today. We cannot undo them. They mold our beliefs, influence our decisions, and impact our relationships. When we bring our memories of the past into our present, especially those associated with trauma or regret, we feel emotional distress, infusing our current experiences with a dose of gloom and doom (good for Halloween, but not for everyday living).
2. Unveiling the Skeletons. To free ourselves from the burdens of the past, we must first acknowledge and confront the skeletons in our closets. This requires a deep dive into our memories, and a willingness to face the pain and discomfort associated with them. By shining a light on these skeletons, we can begin the process of healing.
3. The Art of Forgiveness. One of the most powerful tools in releasing the grip of the past is forgiveness. Forgiving ourselves and others for past mistakes or wrongdoings can be incredibly liberating. It allows us to break free from the chains of resentment and bitterness, opening up space for growth and personal transformation. Forgiveness is not for the other person, it’s for us.
4. Embracing the Present. Living in the present moment is essential for moving forward and leaving the ghosts of the past behind. By practicing mindfulness and cultivating gratitude, we can shift our focus from what was to what is. Remember, any ghost, goblin, or skeleton does not exist in the now… only in the story of our minds, which is a memory that can be evaporated. This shift in perspective enables us to fully engage with the present and create a brighter future.
5. Seeking Support. Letting go of the past is not always an easy journey. It often requires support from others, whether it be friends, family, or professional therapists. Seeking guidance and sharing our stories can provide us with the necessary tools and encouragement to navigate the complexities of our past and move toward a more fulfilling future.
Conclusion: The ghosts of the past and the skeletons in our closets may seem daunting, but they do not have to define us. By acknowledging their presence, forgiving ourselves and others, embracing the present, and seeking support, we can release the burdens that hinder our lives. Let us embark on this journey together, shedding the weight of the past and embracing the freedom that awaits us.
Shelley Whizin is a transformational life coach and the founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™ (SDI), established to study and teach the art and science of Being Human. She’s also the author of “The Healing Journal”, “The Story of the Magical Baby Grand Piano”, and “What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory and Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life”. More at www.ShelleyWhizin.com
