Who are you right now? Like a sunrise or sunset is never the same twice, you will never be exactly the same as you are right now in this moment. Nothing is permanently set. Our stories keep unfolding. Rob Bell, describing himself on a podcast, declared, “Well, that was thirteen Robs ago!” Sometimes we are judged by others, or we judge ourselves for what we did (or who we were) at some time in the past—but how many “you’s ago” was that?

How aware of ourselves are we now? We may, or may not, see significant changes if we look at ourselves a minute ago or an hour or a day ago. However, what about a year ago, five years, or a decade ago? What events happened and what reactions to them did we choose? How might we want to choose differently going forward? What inner healing has taken place in us? What lessons learned and wisdom from them have been brought forward into our lives? What changes do we want to make moving forward? What do we want to bring more of into our lives?

We’ve changed, and we’re not the same as we were then. We’re now a different version of ourselves. Wonder is “surprise mingled with admiration caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable.” That’s you; you’re that “something beautiful!” Instead of focusing on, or judging, a former you, I encourage you to pause and be surprised as you reflect (look at yourself from your heart with admiration) and see the WONDER of who you are right now!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.