“What Advice would my “PAST-Self Give to my TODAY-Self?”

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."  (Romans 8:28)

In my down time, I like to settle down with an old raggedy blanket and pillow to enjoy the old black and white classical movies. One day I saw a commercial that caused me to sit straight up! I’m sure you have seen it too. The advertisement was about a woman who was suffering from a health issue, but she procrastinated the idea of talking to her physician. While she’s contemplating on how to address her health issue, this beautiful, healthy woman walks up to her and says, “Hi…I’m your FUTURE-Self. Let me tell you how to address OUR health issue.”

My mind immediately thought about, “What advice would my PAST-Self give my TODAY-Self?” Better yet,…“What advice would my FUTURE- Self give my TODAY-Self?” Now, don’t get it twisted… only God knows our future. But I need you to work with me for a moment on these hypothetical questions.

I would like to think that my FUTURE-Self would say to my TODAY-Self,

“Sis. Kelley…life is not just about you and your “right now.” “But life stretches beyond your present moment.”

I believe my PAST-Self would say to my TODAY-Self…

“Sis. Kelley, to piggyback off what FUTURE-Self said…Life involves your past pain and valuable lessons learned through the pain. Life is like a “tapestry” of our good and bad experiences, good and bad choices, good and bad people. A tapestry is a woven textile art form that is often rich in color and unique designs. But to create a tapestry, “scissors” will be needed to “cut’ the pieces. A “needle” is needed to “sew” the pieces together. The different shapes, colors and designs synchronize the tapestry in such a way that creates value and makes it even more beautiful and unique.  It is a fact that some believe that a particular ethnic group is a lower standard than another ethnic group. But they fail to realize that one God made us all. Our outward appearance may be a different color, but God designed us with the same color of blood to remind us that we are all one family.”

We are accustomed to giving advice to other people when we see them experiencing a rough time in their life. Many times, we are moved to pray on their behalf. We pray that God would grant them the endurance and strength to carry them through until they get to the “other side of through.” But today, please, consider these questions, “What advice would my PAST-Self give my TODAY-Self?” “What advice would my FUTURE- Self give my TODAY-Self?”

Our past does not determine our future.  But our response to our current situations today can impact our future and those around us.

For His glory…..

Written by Sandra Kelley/ 6-17-25