The lack of awareness only leaves room for regrets. “If I had only…if I had only pondered, considered, reflected, before I acted.” A permanent place of yesterday’s guilt spiraling out of control.
Who hasn’t made at least one mistake? But when we allow our mistakes to become our way of life the real trouble starts. We no longer control our lives or our emotions. If we are not careful, we end up losing our lives or our souls. Awareness needs to be our focus.
When we enable a false sense of self to rule our lives, our awareness is left to run amuck. If we were to remember every mistake we’ve made in our lives, we would, on many occasions, say, to ourselves or a loved one, “if I had only considered the outcome versus the action, I wouldn’t be in this situation that I am today.”
Let’s talk for a moment about the importance of the word “only.” “Only” gives one an opportunity to ponder, reflect, consider and pray for a sound mind before we make a choice. “If I had only,…if I had only pondered, reflected, considered, prayed first I…. I wouldn’t be in the place I am today.”
Yesterday’s seconds, minutes, hours, and days are gone forever. It is what we do today that will make a world of difference for our future. Pointing the finger, or using someone or something to cope with the pain only temporarily takes the accountability away from us for the harm we have done to others or the planet. Remember, at the beginning of the day and at the end of the day, all we have is ourselves.
So how do we start to become more aware of this very moment? If we are to move beyond yesterday’s guilt and regrets we must first learn how to let go of our mistakes. This requires saying “good bye” to yesterday and “hello” to today, moving forward in the present moment, staying aware so we can consciously make sound decisions that positively affect the future.
Every day, remind yourself to be consciously aware of situations and circumstances, so that unconscious choices don’t lead you to a path where only destruction resides. Today, say to yourself “I will do everything within my human power to be aware of the decisions I am making.”
Why wait for the future to start taking control of your life? Why not start today so that regret will never be a part of your tomorrow?
