As each day slips by as we head towards the end of another year as well as anticipate the holidays, I think on reflection.
I’ll even say that I am looking forward to the reminders of joy, despair, growth, and HOPE.
Today, your invitation is to, maybe, take a minute to pause. At the same, I eagerly share with you what causes to just stop and soak it all in.
unpacked boxes in the reflection
Especially before you get run over with end of year stuff.
In layman’s terms, the word REFLECTION itself is defined as:
- an image seen in a mirror or shiny surface
- a thing that is a consequence of or arises from something else
- serious thought or consideration
As many of you know, I recently moved into our new home. Before I put a single thing in a box to take with me, careful consideration is given to each and every item.
While at the same time, I’m carefully transitioning into my new brand from Prodigal Pieces to Livin’ Real with Larissa. In order to do that, I’m doing a deep dive to fix all the issues that I’ve had in the past on my old site but also improving for the new.
One big mess is that my previous Project Gallery has been in a dismal, embarrassing state for far too long. That’s nothing I did but rather a failure of the platform I’m on. The developers refuse to help unless I pay and I had no time to fuss with it myself.
I kept asking for help, but it seems that it was up to me to start over though I did nothing to cause the issues. sigh…
IMAGE IN A MIRROR
Well, now I have to fuss with it in the VERY early hours of the morning and late at night so I can still homeschool my kids and work during daylight hours.
Throw in the fact that we just moved and I’m needing to build, etc. and that makes for one tired mama (but also happy).
In fixing my galleries, I had to a moment of reflection.
My Inspire gallery begins with a different Larissa. One that was ever optimistic, constantly focusing on others, and believes joy can be found in anything.
That Larissa is still there, but with a different way of seeing those things.
The image I see of myself in those early photos of me have a whole lotta unknowns.
We can do the “if only I knew then” dance, but then there’s not much we can do about it except be reflective.
LEARN.
I feel like I was like Lily in the picture above. See’s her reflection inside a “box” of unknown to her. She’s never lived in this house, nor been held captive of sorts while we acclimate her.
such a sweet soul near to my heart – even her shadow
She trusts me and is looking to me for guidance as she explores her new surroundings.
Can you relate to that?
CONSEQUENCE
My current reflection is more like “a thing that is a consequence of or arises from something else”.
Did I choose what’s happened to me my entire life? Not exactly (read all Life Updates HERE)
But what we do with it is like this song by one of my favorite artists, Micah Tyler and Even Then. Just sayin’… he’s AMAZING in concert. Take a listen below.
GOD IS GOOD. Jeremiah 29:11
That little girl who did everything she could to be the best daughter, sister, friend, mother, and wife didn’t know… just didn’t know.
I am seeing words on paper as seen in Scripture come to life over and over again.
How can I doubt He loves me?
My reflection has always shown Him there even when I felt alone.
My strength is futile – even these hands of mine have created, held, bled, strained, and loved. I am ever thankful I am able and thankful I can let go.
SERIOUS THOUGHT OR CONSIDERATION
As you consider your own past and coming future, where do you find yourself?
Yes, the holidays that are coming are known for some as joy. Yet, for others grief and exhaustion.
You have a CHOICE.
Say no to the events or people that drain you.
Find joy where you can and allow yourself to just be.
SHARE
As always, my goal is encouraging conversation. Likewise, let me hear your own reflections in the comments below. What is more, pin and share to encourage others too. Here’s to a year to have the opportunity to look back and learn.
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Also, while you’re at it, here are more projects for you like this story of reflection:
As the mother of 4 children, I thought I was a good mom. But 10 years ago or 2nd son estranged himself from us. We have good relationships with our other 3 children so it’s left us confused and heartbroken. He also has two little boys we have no real relationship with. It makes me beyond sad. I still live him but no longer have a desire for a relationship with him. It’s broken me. 😢. I really appreciate your candor regarding your life and PTSD. Thankfully I’ve found an understanding and helpful Christian counselor.
My heart aches for you, Terri. It doesn’t mean you weren’t a good mother. Praying you all find your way to come to a peaceful situation for all. And I’m so thankful you’ve found someone you can lean on. Sending hugs.
Reflection – the storyline of my life in 2025. Painful and empowering, heavy and enlightening, exhausting and energizing, challenging and inspiring. The lost, broken, scared woman reflected in the mirror a year ago, now radiates clarity, strength, determination, hope, and excitement. I am so grateful that I chose reflection, as hard as it was, than avoidance.
ooh… you are spot on, Marie. Yes, glad for the new, sad for what should have been, but allowing yourself to be all of it is key. Here’s to making good on what we now know and gaining strength
I can sense the new positivity in your writing as you grow into this new phase. I’ve always felt that the experiences I’ve had, good or bad, are necessary because they’ve brought me to where I am today. No regrets, no hate, no guilt. Just the sum of my “learning” how to be the best and happiest version of me. I’m a good deal older than you, but I’m still learning and grappling and wondering why we are constantly tested and challenged to nearly breaking. I can’t answer that, but I can say these hardships make me pinpoint, appreciate and savor the wonderful things in my life. And there are many. You remind me that this is a necessary part of living and pursuing our best lives. Thank you!!! ❤️
It’s crazy though as I’ve always been an optimist and why seeing my old posts (see HERE) made me sad in a way. Just like you and no matter the age, constantly wondering why. We’ll know one day. Instead of sitting in pity, we are moving forward, Rebecca! Sending hugs and prayers your way.