This time last year, the only tears I could shed were those of fear, guilt, misery, and deep self-loathing. I was trapped in my own mind, endlessly replaying my past, feeding my inner torment with the very fuel it needed to keep me ensnared in the darkness of alcohol.
But today, I no longer dwell in the past or worry about a future that hasn’t come. I live in the present, and in this moment, I have so much to be grateful for that it would take far too long to list it all.
What I cherish most, what I thank my higher power for each morning, is the profound sense of joy that fills my heart and mind when I realise I’ve forgiven myself. The past is called the past because it’s behind us, unchangeable, and beyond our control. The only thing we can do now is live in the present—striving to be as happy and useful as possible, supporting our loved ones, and making amends through our actions.
The more you dwell in your own misery and guilt, the more it consumes you, eventually projecting outwards and affecting the lives of everyone around you. But by choosing to live in the present with a heart full of gratitude, you can transform not only your own life but the lives of those you care about.
A Year Ago
A year ago, a prisoner of fear,
Trapped in a mind where darkness would appear.
Guilt and misery, self-loathing's sting,
Alcohol's grip, a cruel, relentless thing.
The past replayed, a haunting, endless reel,
Feeding the torment, a vicious, painful deal.
But now I'm free, the past is left behind,
A new day dawns, a peace of mind.
Gratitude fills my heart, a joyful sound,
Forgiveness found, a healing, sacred ground.
The present moment, a precious, new start,
Striving for happiness, with all my heart.
No more dwelling in misery's deep abyss,
Choosing joy, a path to happiness.
Transforming lives, a ripple spreading wide,
As gratitude and love forever inside.
A Tapestry of Forgiveness
"To err is human; to forgive, divine."
A tapestry of words, woven fine.
"Forgiveness is a virtue of the brave,"
A beacon of hope, a heart no slave.
"Forgive others, not for their sake, but yours,"
A peaceful heart, where love endures.
"To forgive is to set a prisoner free,"
Unburdening the soul, it’s yours to be.
"Forgiveness is the final form of love,"
A sacred gift, from heavens above.
"The weak can never forgive," it's said,
"Forgiveness is the attribute of the humble," instead.
"Forgive yourself, for you are a child of the universe,"
A gentle reminder, a loving verse.
"Forgiveness says you are given another chance,"
A new beginning, a second dance.
In every word, a message clear,
A path to healing, dispelling fear.
A tapestry of forgiveness, woven with care,
A beacon of hope, shining bright, everywhere.
