# Embracing the Past: A Journey of Reflection and Reconnection
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Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Reconnection
Can our past experiences seamlessly weave into our present lives? This question lingers for two older women contemplating whether to reignite a friendship that faded during their adolescence.
During our teenage years, we spent countless hours chatting about everything from fashion to crushes, sharing laughter and tears. If the memories of those friendships still resonate with us, should we take the plunge to reconnect? Are we driven by mere curiosity, or do we genuinely wish to understand the lives our friends have built since those carefree days? Although years have passed since we roamed the hallways of high school together, the joyful moments we shared remain vivid in our minds. Is it possible to blend those cherished memories with our current lives?
Will we feel envious of their achievements, or will we celebrate their journeys? What if the connection has changed, or if there are moments of discomfort? Despite the uncertainties, I am willing to embrace the risk of reaching out, showing authentic interest in the person they've become, while still recalling the bond we formed before life's responsibilities took over.
Indeed, our past can find a place in our present.
Author: Bonnie Lieberman, a poet and children’s book author, reflects on her rich past. A Bronx native, she reminisces about her childhood filled with games, friendships, and imagination. As a licensed elementary teacher and reading specialist, her passion lies in fostering creativity and individuality in students. Bonnie has also dedicated a significant part of her career to working with adolescents in a psychiatric setting. Currently, she resides in Bergen County, NJ, with her husband, a child therapist, and their dogs, cherishing time spent with family.
The Takeaway by Lewis Harrison, "AskLewisTips.com"
Writing and reading the works of friends and peers brings me immense joy. Some of their creations resonate deeply, touching that part of me that craves meaning and emotional depth. Many of my talented friends share their writings on private blogs or social media, often reaching only a handful of readers. To amplify their voices, I've decided to showcase their remarkable work on Medium.com. With Bonnie's permission, I am excited to share her poetry and stories.
Chapter 2: The Power of Introspection
As we delve into the value of looking inward, it’s essential to understand the right and wrong ways to practice self-reflection.
The first video, "The Right and Wrong Way to Practice Introspection," explores effective strategies for self-examination, ensuring that we engage in this vital practice positively and constructively.
Section 2.1: The Importance of Self-Reflection
Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth and understanding. It allows us to assess our past actions and their impact on our present.
Subsection 2.1.1: Techniques for Effective Introspection
This section will delve into various methods that can enhance our self-reflection practices, making them more insightful and productive.
Section 2.2: Insights from Experts
To further enrich our understanding of self-reflection, we can look to the insights of thought leaders.
In the second video, "The Value of Self-Reflection" by James Schmidt at TEDxUniversityofGlasgow, we gain a deeper appreciation for how self-reflection can lead to significant personal transformation.