I think there is a lot of truth to living your life to be happy and not becoming embroiled with resentment and regret about the past. Buuuuut... how does the saying go? If we don't learn from errors of the past we are doomed to repeat them. And the fact of the matter is, we did lose out on some things. And at the same time, we probably avoided some bad things because of our being Witnesses. Try to take all those lessons and help people in the future (most obviously our own children) to do better than we did.
The Greatest Gift (no one is guaranteed tomorrow)
by AllTimeJeff 15 Replies latest jw friends
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Mary
cognizant dissident said: I'm 47 and in my 3rd year of college. Many times, I've been the oldest person in my classes. Sometimes I think, what am I doing here, trying to compete with these kids who are younger, faster, healthier and better looking than me. But you know, next year I'm going to be 48 regardless. I can be 48 with a degree or I can be 48 without a degree.
48 certainly isn't "too old". Here in Ontario, seniors can go to university for free and believe me, more than a few do it, either to keep busy, learn new things or just for the satisfaction of getting a degree. One elderly man graduated about 3 years ago with a B.A. in Psychology. He was 84.
And the kids in your class might be "younger, faster, healthier and better looking", but they don't have the life and work experiences that you do. That counts for something.
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cult classic
You can't lose what you never had. True. But the missed opportunities and poor outlook on life is HUGE while being in a cult. I'm impressed by the ability to move forward and heal that many experience after leaving a cult. I'm strengthened by exJW's healing words and encouragement.
Good thoughts guys.
Good post Jeff.
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Lozhasleft
Interesting thoughts there Jeff and I agree in essence. Trouble is for so many of we have lost so much of what we had....and it can be so painful.
Loz x
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mrsjones5
This topic reminds me of a movie I watched with my kids the other day, "Kung Fu Panda", when Master Oogway says: "There is a saying: yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the "present."
Wise words indeed.
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caliber
I think this simple saying sums it all up.... "If life gives you a lemon , then make lemon aid "
Become wiser by hurtful experiences (lesson learned) ... Cherish the wonderful experiences that warm your soul!