What’s something you’ve done that your past self would be proud of?
I have always been an idealist. I hold strong convictions about life and I try to embody them in the way I live. Sometimes my idealism has been a little naive. At other times, my convictions needed time and experience to mature. But I think my younger self would be pleased that I haven’t lost that idealism.
I’ve spent decades working with people and institutions. I’ve encountered disappointment, selfishness, failure, and situations where good intentions simply weren’t enough. I’ve watched people become exhausted, burn out, stop caring, or throw their hands in the air and give up.
I understand how that happens. Cynicism can become a way of protecting ourselves from further disappointment. If we stop expecting much, we are less likely to be disappointed. But something is lost in the process.
I still believe people matter. I still believe they can grow and change, that relationships can be empowering, and that new beginnings are possible.
Perhaps my idealism has changed over the years. When I was younger, I expected people to be better than they were. These days, I’m more interested in helping people grow and develop.
I’ve learned that good intentions aren’t enough. People need accountability, encouragement, and sometimes a second chance. But disappointment is not a sufficient reason to stop trying.
My Christian faith has shaped that conviction. One of my personal mantras is Leave room for grace. Our mistakes matter, and our actions have consequences. But people need not be defined forever by their worst decisions. Grace leaves open the possibility of a different future.
I don’t know whether my younger self would be particularly impressed by my career or achievements. But I think he would be relieved to discover that I haven’t stopped caring about the things that mattered to him.
I hope I’ve become wiser with age. But I’m glad I haven’t become less hopeful.
What’s something you’ve done that your past self would be proud of?
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