Every Shoe Has A Story: Lessons Learned

Happy New Year! By now, you have passed the first holiday of 2023 and may be thinking about goals, projects, finances, travel, etc. But many, unfortunately, are looking back with remorse and regret and not focused forward on their future. 

The last two years have been very challenging for most…if not, for all of us. For some, it has been harder than others. Even in our darkest hours, there is a lesson, a gift to embrace, and a journey to testify to others.

Over the holidays, I got to connect with my childhood friends and family I have not seen in years. We laughed (gut-busting, bent-over laughs) so hard at things we did in our childhood and the jokes we shared. But we also shared tender moments of struggles we have endured.  

Now to the shoe story…

While we were sitting together laughing and eating, one of our friends looked under the table (after she thought she kicked someone’s foot to apologize) and saw the lonely boot in the middle of the floor. She laughed and pointed it out to us and we laughed again.  And I said, “Look, it’s a shoe without a foot.” We burst out laughing. Then, another friend said, “That’s a word. Imagine the stories the shoe could tell about its journeys.” We all thought similarly about the cliche you never know what someone is going through unless you’ve walked a mile in their shoes. 

From this moment of sharing, our friend began to talk about a very difficult season in her life and everything she went through with her family. Some of us looked as if in shock because we were not aware. Others who were close to our friend also had a look of shock because they didn’t know it all. For a moment we shared similar feelings and experiences of going through difficult life events and no one even knowing what we endured.

After sharing my friend said, “You never know what people are going through. Life is too short. That’s why I have fun.” 

Wow! So true. While I have kept private the details of her hardship, you have your own story. Learn from her story that life is too short not to live it well with abundance, joy, fun, laughter, and love, in spite of the difficult seasons. No one knows the trouble you’ve seen but there are parts of your story you may need to share with another trusted friend for support. 

A trusted friend, a loved one, or even a therapist can support you when you feel all alone in your journey. Just like the lonely boot under the table, it was alone until we all witnessed her story.  If you are feeling down, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, consider seeking a therapist.  You may also find support in ministry and other community support groups. I encourage you today to not hold things in anyone and slowly begin to share your story.  

In the meantime…please check out our website for resources to support your mental health and well-being.

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In Your Wellness,

Dr. Clack