Hey there, lovely readers! It’s Tina, back again with another deep dive into the corners of our minds and hearts. Today’s topic is a real thinker: Would you rather be able to change the past or change the future? Buckle up, because we’re about to explore this with the kind of humor and humanity that makes us all feel a little less alone in this crazy ride called life.
If I had the chance to choose, I’d go with changing my past. I know, I know, the future is all shiny and full of possibilities, but hear me out. Imagine having the power to go back in time and tweak those moments that have left you scarred, broken, or just plain bewildered. For me, it’s not just about wanting to be normal like everyone else—having friends you can trust, people who have your back. It’s about undoing the countless times I’ve been hurt—physically, mentally, verbally, emotionally. It’s about erasing the pain inflicted by almost everyone I’ve ever encountered, from family to strangers.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Growing up, I was that kid who seemed to have a target on her back. Bullies at school, harsh words at home, and even random strangers seemed to find a way to chip away at my self-esteem. If I could change my past, I’d start by standing up to those bullies. Maybe I’d learn a little karate or simply muster the courage to tell them to back off. I’d make sure my younger self knew that she was worth defending.
Then there’s the mental and verbal abuse. The words that cut deeper than any knife, leaving invisible scars that still ache today. I’d go back and give my past self a voice—to speak out and say, “Enough!” I’d tell her that she doesn’t deserve to be belittled or made to feel small. I’d surround her with the kind of support system that builds you up instead of tearing you down. I’d ensure she grows up feeling loved and valued.
And let’s not forget about those relationships. You know the ones—where you open your heart only to have it trampled on. If I could change my past, I’d be a better judge of character. I’d avoid the toxic relationships and invest in the ones that are nurturing and genuine. I’d teach my past self that it’s okay to walk away from people who don’t treat you right, whether they’re family, friends, or partners.
But let’s sprinkle in some humor, shall we? Imagine if I could go back and change those awkward moments that still make me cringe. Like that time in high school when I tried to impress my crush and ended up spilling spaghetti all over myself. Or the job interview where I confidently answered a question with a completely wrong and unrelated anecdote. Yep, those are the moments I’d love a do-over on.
If I could change my past, maybe I wouldn’t feel so distrustful and paranoid today. I wouldn’t be that person who’s constantly on edge, waiting for the next blow to come. I’d have a sense of peace and security, knowing that the people in my life genuinely care for me and have my best interests at heart. I’d be able to open up and let people in without the fear of getting hurt.
But here’s the kicker—changing the past isn’t just about erasing the bad. It’s about creating a foundation for a better future. A future where I’m not a lost soul on a ticking time clock. A future where I’m not damaged, but whole. Where I’m not hurt, but healed. Where I’m not distrustful, but open-hearted.
Imagine the ripple effects of these changes. If I could alter those pivotal moments, perhaps I’d have pursued different passions or taken paths I was too afraid to consider. Maybe I’d have had the confidence to join that art class I always wanted to, or to speak up in situations where I remained silent. Perhaps I’d have nurtured talents that remain hidden, buried under layers of insecurity and doubt cast by past experiences.
There’s also the aspect of missed opportunities. How many friendships and relationships might have flourished if I hadn’t been carrying the weight of past hurts? If I could change my past, I’d seize those opportunities with open arms. I’d be the kind of person who dives headfirst into new experiences without the baggage of old wounds holding me back. I’d be more present in every moment, savoring life’s simple joys without the constant reminder of past traumas.
And let’s talk about family for a minute. Family dynamics can be complicated, to say the least. If I could change my past, I’d go back and mend those relationships that went awry. I’d have those tough conversations that I avoided, and I’d strive to understand and forgive. I’d work on building a family foundation rooted in love and respect, rather than one marred by misunderstandings and hurtful words. Family gatherings would be filled with laughter and warmth instead of tension and unspoken resentments.
In the realm of career and professional life, changing the past could mean making different choices that align more closely with my passions and strengths. Maybe I’d have chosen a different field of study or taken risks in my career that I was too afraid to take. I’d pursue my dreams with the confidence that comes from a past free of constant self-doubt and fear of failure. I’d be in a place where I truly felt fulfilled and excited about the work I do every day.
Of course, changing the past wouldn’t be without its own set of challenges. There’s the butterfly effect to consider—how even small changes can have far-reaching consequences. But I like to think that the positive changes would outweigh any unforeseen complications. After all, healing from past wounds and building a healthier, happier life is a pretty compelling reason to take that leap.
So, why would I choose to change my past? Because it would mean rewriting the narrative of my life. It would give me the chance to be the person I’ve always wanted to be—strong, confident, and happy. It would mean having a childhood filled with love and laughter, relationships built on trust and mutual respect, and a life lived without the constant shadow of past traumas.
Now, I know we can’t actually change the past. But writing this has been a bit like therapy—a way to acknowledge the pain and imagine a different path. And maybe, just maybe, it can inspire me (and you) to take those small steps toward healing and making the future a little brighter.
Until next time, be kind to yourselves and remember—our pasts may shape us, but they don’t have to define us.
With love,
Tina
