Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

I was listening to my sister read one of her devotionals, and what stood out to me was the phrase "Leave the ashes behind." Many of us hold onto the ashes of our past which hinders progression into the future. Because of the pain caused by a broken relationship, many put their heart in a box and throw away the key. A family member broke your trust, so all members are untrustworthy. I do this! I refuse to trust people, because I feel as though they will eventually leave. I put no effort in maintaining relationships.

Leave the ashes behind; do not stereotype every scenario based on a previous circumstance. Doing this will cause you to miss out on many wonderful opportunities. Don't miss out a new business venture, your future spouse, or even a trip to Mexico with some good friends just because in the past things didn't work out. I would never want anyone to treat me like the person that backstabbed them because that person's name was also Chelbe, so why treat others in a similar manner?

Holding onto past shortcomings, pain or disappointments will stop you from healing. It will also stop you from appreciating the beautiful things in life. It affects how you view yourself, and limits how far you can reach. Leave the ashes behind and keep moving forward. Believe in a better tomorrow, and a stronger you.