Confronting the Past, Running Towards a Brighter Future

Per-nal

Zerayn D.

I like to walk at least twice a week, reaching 10,000 steps-that’s less than 2 hours. I would also like to run, as my friend encouraged me to do so. I though of trying that, too.

But that’s not really the kind of “run” I had been doing in my life.
For a long time, I yearned to ultimately run away from the harsh realities of my life. I often fantasized about enduring a severe accident. It would cause me to lose my memories. This would free me from my painful past and traumatic experiences. Alas, such an accident never befell me. I started to wish for something that would allow me to pretend to have selective amnesia. I wanted to forget the people who disregarded me. This was the manner in which I sought to “run” from the difficult situations I faced.

Nonetheless, one day, I experienced a spiritual encounter with God. I found myself in a scenario where all of my past triggers were confronting me from all sides. Faced with the reality of my situation, I decided it was time to confront them. I needed to deal with each one individually. This process was emotionally draining, and I was plunged into a state of utter despair. However, through my suffering, I was liberated from the cycle of constant evasion. It was in this moment of anguish and streams of tears that I found deliverance. This deliverance enables me to face my troubles head-on.

From that moment on, I committed myself to embracing the present and “running” towards a brighter future. I resolved to no longer run from my past. I would not allow the disappointments of today to hinder my progress. Instead, I chose to bury the hurt and pain of yesterday. I used it as a driving force to propel myself forward.

This is the kind of “run” or “walk” I am enthusiastic about. It leads to a journey of self-discovery. It leads to a journey of healing. It leads to a journey towards a future filled with hope and possibility.

There is time for everything….
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance. Ecclesiastes 3:3-4