3 Basics of a Full Life

In reflection of Easter Sunday, it’s worth taking time to slow down and ponder. Epic war movies such as “Saving Private Ryan” stir us to value our lives. Discovering three brothers had died within a week, the mission was to spare the fourth brother during World War II. The last scene shows Ryan as an old man at the grave of the sergeant who led the forces. Ryan turns to his wife for affirmation that he lived his life well.

We’re reminded of 3 basics of a full life.

Deep within our souls, we desire to live our lives well.

1. Learn from the past

2. Notice patterns

3. Resurrect potential

Sunday afternoon I wanted a peaceful place to write; to hear God say, Come over here, Judy. I have something to show you. Instead, stacks of paper, to-do piles, and unfinished manuscripts were the opposite of what I wanted. Email and paper hoarding are huge struggles; considered as my “writing blocks.”

I almost tossed the old letter in the trash bag in my efforts to throw out clutter. It was a “Dear Lord” letter written at a crisis of discovery in my life from years ago.

I re-read old feelings of betrayal and shock. It was like an emotional earthquake then. A “trustworthy” co-worker betrayed me. The writing captured raw emotions and circumstances.

The outlet for the tormented neuropathways of my brain and desperation of my soul were there. Memories of crying out to God through that letter touched me in the “now” of my fresh reading.

Why go backwards and read such a thing?

Why did I even keep it? Why the mental energy to read it now? What is familiar? What is different? How is my reasoning now as I look into the heart of my younger self? 

Ah, I’m glad you asked!

I’m a therapist and a writer which requires insight in my own life as I counsel or write for others. Yes, I’m looking for connections and meaning. The Holy Spirit continues to invite me into the abundant life Christ died to give. Resurrection Sunday, life’s circumstances, relationships, and seasons are continual reminders of death, grief, new life, and celebrations.

Learn from the past

Our pain is never wasted, tears have meaning and our days are numbered. Share on X Forgiveness is a journey. Deep emotions and traumatic experiences are temporary. They’re opportunities for meeting God in the raw places of our souls. Allow transformation to happen.

Notice patterns

Our brains are wired for patterns. How we related in our family of origins become templates for our adult relationships. If we notice the patterns, we can be intentional to change. We can’t change anything we’re clueless about. Journal writing is a great mirror of insight and self-awareness.

Resurrect potential

The value of looking back, learning, and being more aware helps free us for the new. Like pruning dead branches from Azalea bushes, we allow blooms to open to give hope for others. We model and experience newness. We head in the direction of the full life Christ meant for us.

As you reflect beyond Resurrection Sunday, be willing to reflect on the sacrifice and your worthiness: learn from the past, notice patterns, and embrace the fullness of your life.

Questions to Ponder

What lessons have you learned in your life?

What patterns have you noticed in your relationships?

What potential awaits you at this stage?