11 Comments
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Andrea Stoeckel's avatar

I was never meant to be. PERIOD. My mother contracted polio between the two epidemics and although she conquered it she was told she couldn't have children. So she married at 35, and got pregnant (?!) and then had another girl 15 months later(!)

And we both disappointed her- I was a child born with FAE issues and compromised lungs. My sister has her own set of issues. We lost both our parents 15 months apart 40+ years ago.

I set myself free by investing my inheritance in physical corrections and education that has granted me a 40+ year career in ministry

Not bad for a disappointment

Derek Lakin's avatar

Thanks so much for sharing those deep memories, Andrea. I'm so glad you're in a much better place now. Did mindfulness play a role during any part of your transformation?

ecad's avatar

Thank you for the reminders and your open honest sharing of your own experiences.. it really helps the message hit home. I like your reframing of negative thoughts, so useful!

Derek Lakin's avatar

Thank you, ecad! I'm honored that it resonated. 🙏

ecad's avatar

Pleasure Derek, good to be in contact again. Looking forward to following your new work.

Gunther Hammel's avatar

The practice of reframing is an incredible one. Loved the examples in it. It is up to us to assent or dissent to the impressions which we take in. How we judge these things is up to each of us, and why not choose to view it from a perspective of how something can be useful, regardless of its perceived value? Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

Derek Lakin's avatar

Thank you deeply, Gunther! If nothing else, life is all about the perspectives we choose.

Debbie.'s avatar

Thank you for these words of encouragement. With your knowledge and understanding clearly seen.

Derek Lakin's avatar

Thanks so much, Debbie! These words are only a reflection of your own deeper understanding. 🙏

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Jun 20, 2025
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Derek Lakin's avatar

I strongly align, Michelle!

Seeking inward guidance is simple, although definitely not easy. The temptation is always there, waiting for us to throw in the towel. Especially when it seems that the messy middle is a never-ending universe unto itself, which makes us believe we're not making progress. Small efforts, repeated daily.

Thanks so much for sharing your truth, and I'm glad you're feeling better!

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Jun 19, 2025
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Derek Lakin's avatar

Thanks so much, Anna. Inner knowing by aligning with our higher selves is definitely a gift we all deserve to give ourselves.

I really like the 4-step process you outlined, and it has me thinking. Since they begin with a present-moment experience and expand from there, I can see how it's grounding. Whereas the meditation in the article begins by tapping into the higher self, and then pulling its messaging through the body.