The Power of Our Stories: Embracing Our Past

The Power of Our Stories: Embracing Our Past

The Unexpected Trigger

I’m sitting at work on a Friday, which always feels like the longest day of the week. I look forward to the end of the day when I can retreat to my studio and immerse myself in creating. However, this Friday is different. There's a mandatory workshop scheduled for after work—something I wasn’t informed about—and attendance is non-negotiable. Usually, I don't need breaks during the day at my part-time job because I work a few hours, but today, I have to take a break to eat since I’ll be staying late.

I’m feeling hungry and, frustratingly, I don’t have my wallet. Over the years, I’ve learned to leave my purse at home; the risk of it being stolen and losing all my essential documents is too significant. My wallet holds everything: credit cards, my driving license, identity cards—you name it. While keeping everything in one spot is convenient, I know it’s not the best strategy.

I have a half-hour break and desperately need to grab something to eat. If I’m going to power through the extended hours ahead, I can’t do it on an empty stomach. Thankfully, I remember I could use the digital card saved in my banking app. I decide to take a chance and head to the market, unsure if it will work out.

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Reflecting on My Childhood

Unsure if my virtual credit card would work, I grabbed a couple of small items from the shop to curb my hunger—a yogurt and a little pastry. When I approached the register to pay, I discovered that my virtual card wouldn’t work. Frustrated, I had no choice but to leave my modest purchases behind and return to work.

As I made my way back, my mind was flooded with thoughts, and I couldn't shake the feelings of humiliation and humility that washed over me. Why am I feeling this way? I said, "It's not the end of the world. The virtual card failed, and I still have some work hours ahead. I’ll eat when I get home." 

Normally, I’d dismiss such an incident without a second thought. I’ve faced far more challenging circumstances—I’ve built resilience. Yet, this experience triggered something deeper within me.

Before I could unravel my thoughts, a voice inside me broke through: "Remember when you were a hungry child, waiting for someone’s mercy just to fill your stomach? This experience is about it!" Of course, I remember. That memory is still vivid. Those who have faced starvation at any point in their lives never forget it.

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The Strength in Acknowledging Our Past

My brother and I often found ourselves hungry as children because there wasn’t enough to eat. Despite my mother working full-time as a single parent, providing for us daily was daunting. We relied on the kindness of her friends and our aunts and uncles to fill our plates.

Even though I'm an adult with access to food and a fulfilling life, I still find myself triggered by experiences that remind me of those difficult times. It’s ironic: even now, I can feel an overwhelming reluctance to throw food away, even when it's spoiled, because I know how it feels to have nothing to eat. Yet, I hold no regrets about my life experiences. I wouldn’t wish for a different path. The only changes I would make concern the relationship I lacked with my father, and how I could have eased my mother’s burdens during those tough years.

Every one of us has a unique story. Triggers occasionally draw us back, reminding us of our origins. Facing those memories through the lens of adulthood empowers our narratives. Our stories can inspire and uplift others, shaping us into who we are today. 

My own story has played a pivotal role in my identity. Reflecting on the hungry child I was often has shaped my perspective and ignited my creative fire. Your story has undoubtedly done the same for you. I encourage you to possess the courage to revisit your past; there lies the true power of your narrative. 

While our stories may not solely define us, they undeniably shape us. Let’s embrace and stand confidently by them. No moment, no matter how painful, was without purpose. 

Have you encountered a recent trigger that brought your life story to the forefront?
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