Happy Friday and Happy Birthday to GoG! I hope everyone is well. I’m on summer break, and it has been AMAZING! I was scrolling through Facebook a couple of days ago, and I ran across a post from my cousin, Sharica. I had been experiencing some growing pains, but it was something about her post that made me think.

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Have you ever wondered why it seems so hard to move past something? Whether it’s a person, place, or event—it’s human nature to replay moments you wish would have gone differently. I call them cringe moments, and sometimes they get me in a rut. When I saw Sharica’s post, my jaw dropped. Because right there in front of me was the advice I needed. There is a reason the windshield is larger than the rearview mirror. We need to be able to see more, observe more, and be better prepared for what’s to come. The only time you use the rearview mirror is to reverse, which doesn’t last long. Once you get enough space, you move forward again.

Something that I’ve learned over the past two years is that you cannot rewrite history. At some point, I think we all play the antagonist in someone’s story—or our own story if we’re not careful. I know that’s why it’s essential to give yourself grace. I’m glad the windshield is larger because my future is limitless. My past was a moment, but my future is now, and that’s a view worth exploring.

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Today Garden of Growth turns two. I want you to know that I am smiling from ear to ear as I type this. Two years ago, I was forcing myself to make a move. To look forward and only use the rear view to ensure I cleared the way before starting again. I am looking forward to the “views” that this next year will bring. I told Sharica she inspired me, but I never told her why. She encouraged me because her status provided the analogy I needed to keep moving forward. After all, there is a much better view up ahead. Thank you, cousin; I love you.

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I want you all to know that I appreciate all the support you’ve given me over the past two years. It means the world to me. I do not take it lightly when people tell me they read my blog. It inspires me to keep sharing what I’m learning and being the light God wants me to be. I want you guys to get your tools out! We’re headed back to the garden.

Take Care,

ToriB💕🌻