I sat and listened to her share her story with me. Tears fell down her face as she described building a business for more than 25 years and having to shut it down. She described how she felt and what failure felt like. I listened as she described the shame and frustration and even guilt that overcame her as she walked away. I watched her persona changed as she spoke about having to sell her house and pull her children out of university. I cried as she cried because I know she was only telling me this story because she recognized where I am in my career today. I have looked up to her for many years. I admired her poise, tenacity, and her selflessness and so listening to her today was the most humbling thing ever. Has she failed though? In my eyes, she didn’t! I was suddenly reminded of this quote
“Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could become a page in someone else’s survival guide.” — Morgan Harper Nichols
As I seek wisdom for my own survival in this moment, her story is so necessary. She wiped her eyes and started encouraging me. “You see Dawn, I was given a second chance that actually feels like a “first chance”. Now I am living the dream I’ve always wanted. If it happen for me, it will happen for you.” She hugged me and I left.
Your stories are necessary. Everyone of your stories, the good , bad and the ugly. They are all necessary for someone else’s survival. What if someones victory is tied up in your story? Will you share your story today? We need each other to survive in this race called life.
So I’ve decided to Try One More Time!
P.S. If you or someone you know is in need of counseling, please reach out to us. We are here to help. Click this link to get started.
