Although I don’t think it’s healthy to always live in the past, I think that the ability to see it with new eyes, or looking at it with a different perspective can offer clarity. For many people, however, the past conjures up negative emotions, which can make this exercise in self-reflection difficult and seemingly futile. But I believe that it is only when we are able to look back that we are able to start linking all of our life’s experiences together and are able to see the bigger picture. By looking back, we are able to see outside of ourselves and we can then forge ahead a little less selfishly.

When my sister first got engaged, i have to admit, I selfishly couldn’t help but worry about the separation that would undoubtedly occur between my sister and I, once she gets married. We talk just about every day and I consider her my best friend. I imagined I would lose that once she embarks on this journey. But watching the old home videos helped me change my outlook. Her relationship to me and the rest of my siblings will be different, no doubt, but it doesn’t mean it won’t be just as strong, if not stronger. Our family will grow and there will be more love than ever before. I love her fiancee, my family loves him, and most importantly, they love each other. The VHS tapes may have been dusty and old, but taking a trip down memory lane, proved to me that the future can be bright and so full of joy. I’m excited by the adventure of it all, chaos included.