Integrating Grace into overall wellness
Learning to be kind to myself, forgiving my personal shortcomings, and practicing self-discipline have contributed to my living a somewhat balanced and fulfilling life—though I’m still evolving. Focusing on nurturing a positive mindset, fostering self-acceptance, and promoting holistic well-being through a graceful approach is what has kept me grounded.
I learned early on that my children would not be raised in a two-parent home. At 17, fresh out of high school with a one-year-old, and thousands of miles away from my parents and family, I was vulnerable and manipulated by a man too young to understand how to be a father. The streets were his priority.
Given my circumstances and the chaos my children witnessed, I’m aware that I inflicted some damage on them. I have apologized for allowing them to see such turmoil. Unfortunately, these experiences were necessary for my growth.
The chaos helped me realize how young and immature I was. It also led me to understand that I would need to make small sacrifices as a parent for the betterment of my children. I gave birth at 16—what did I really know? Over time, I learned to extend myself grace. Love yourself beyond your mistakes. Love yourself through the grace. Forgive yourself!
Raising my sons on my own taught me that it’s okay to extend myself grace. In fact, my sons taught me this lesson.
No matter how life unfolds, get in the habit of taking a step back and processing the moment. Everyone makes decisions that lead to lessons learned. Own your decisions, learn from them, and most importantly, love yourself beyond the mistakes. Love yourself through the grace. Forgive yourself!
Brown Sugar Lemonade: Forgiving yourself is a powerful step towards healing and achieving wellness. It allows you to release the burden of past mistakes and move forward with a renewed sense of wholeness. By embracing self-forgiveness, you create space for personal growth, inner peace, and a healthier, more balanced life.
Scripture: Psalm 103:8-14
“The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust”. (NLT)
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
I come to You with a heavy heart, seeking Your help to forgive myself for my mistakes. Please grant me the grace to release my guilt and embrace the forgiveness You offer. Help me to learn from my errors and move forward with Your peace in my heart. Thank You for Your boundless mercy and love.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
