GRACE

Grace

This means that all of your mistakes now serve a purpose instead of doing shame.

Brene Brown

I understand that quote more now than ever. I live with my daily mistakes but have learned they do not define me. My journey has taught me to have grace for myself and others. I admit I fail at times, and I have to remind myself. I’m forming a mindful habit of being compassionate to others and myself. Not so quick to judge. I remind myself that we all fight battles that each other has no idea about.

Grace removes judgment and opens the door for healing. Showing compassion for myself and others has been challenging. I have judged when I should have not. I have been critical of myself and others. Every time I miss the mark, the universe always sends me reminders. I stop and listen and proceed accordingly.

Dealing with my mental illness has shown me what compassion feels like. There are days when I’m not myself and don’t want to be bothered. My wife and children show me grace. My family shows me grace when I check out for days and don’t return calls. When I’m impatient with the grocery store cashier, a stranger shows me grace. You all get the point.

I will always be a student on this journey, no matter how much self-discovery I do. I know I will be able to teach others, but I will never stop learning. I have so much growing to do, so I remind myself how far I’ve come. I’ve learned not to compare my journey to others. We may be on the same path but headed in different directions. I am appreciative of divine intervention and intuition. I listen more than speak. It’s all part of the process, and I love it.

I am happily learning to let go and just be. I am learning to love others right where they are at. I am learning to show love and compassion regardless of the reception or outcome. I know that we all have lessons to be discovered. Some learn sooner than others. It’s that simple.

So give yourself some grace the next time you feel shame, guilt, anger, or hurt. Remember, not everyone knows how to receive or show compassion, including YOU.

*** I hope to inspire others living with mental illness, shame, guilt, and ugly truths to continue their journey from the darkness to the light without judgment. These stories are my ugly and beautiful truths and part of my trauma-healing journey. I hope sharing guides another from darkness to light.

Love, Light, & Peace

Candice Watson