March 5, 2023
By Nia Locier
Staff Writer
The past can be an alluring place to stay. It is easy to dwell on it, reminiscing the events that have already happened and the life we used to live. It’s like reading the same chapter repeatedly. Unfortunately, some people expect a different ending, but the chapter always ends the same way no matter how you read it.
When you dwell on the past, it is easy to become discouraged, emotional and overwhelmed. It is also a waste of time because looking back won’t solve your problems. Personally, I’ve learned to accept that in life, circumstances and people change. And when they do, you can’t be hurt by it because that is how life works.
I had a period in my life when I was spending a lot of time dwelling on the past. This was after I lost someone who was really really close to me. It was not a death, but I cut ties with that person. It hurt me because I loved them so much. Not having them by my side affected me a lot. It’s not easy, and until this day, I still get emotional and upset about it.
When you dwell on the past, it is easy to become discouraged, emotional and overwhelmed.
Thankfully, I found constructive ways to deal with my grief and anger. I joined the Lyndhurst recreation soccer team and played for a while this past summer, which helped me a lot because, on the days when I would feel down, I would go to practice and take my mind off the negative thoughts. I also started spending more time outside with my friends. For instance, we ride our bikes and go on walks.
It was not easy to train myself to look ahead rather than think about what has been, but I am glad I developed the habit of doing so. It’s okay to reflect on the past every so often, but I am proud that I do not let my painful memories and losses dominate my life.
