by Norman Lloyd, MA, LPC, Retired Army Veteran

The Story of You

“I was born. I lived. I died.”
—One of the shortest stories ever told

In just a few words, this captures the entire arc of the human experience.
But your story? It’s far more complex, beautiful, painful, and powerful. Let’s go deeper.

🌱 I Was Born

The odds of your birth? Astronomical.
Like a million marbles rolling through a maze—only one became you.
You are a miracle. Even before you knew what “hope” was, it was already within you.

🕰 I Lived

Life unfolds in three parts—each sacred in its own way:

🔙 The Past

At 60, I’ve reflected more deeply than ever. We’re told to “move on” from the past, but the truth?
Your past is your library. It holds your lessons, your healing, your growth.
It may be messy, but it’s yours—and it’s meaningful. Don’t fear it. Learn from it.

✨ The Present

Right now is where life actually happens.

• Hear the song of the bird, the laugh of your child.

• See the colors of joy.

• Taste food that delights.

• Feel the warmth of love, the pull of a hug, the tears of a good memory.
  Be here. Be fully here.

🔮 The Future

The future is yours to shape.
It’s easy to feel like time is slipping by, but don’t wait—build your tomorrow.
Plan with intention: emotionally, financially, spiritually. You deserve a future crafted by your own hands.

🌌 I Died

Yes—everything ends. That truth can feel terrifying… but it also gives life its meaning.
It reminds us to live deeply, laugh loudly, and love boldly.

Whatever you believe about the afterlife, know this:
You are not alone.
Our lives have touched here, even in this moment.
We are part of a greater whole.

💛 As PTSD Awareness Month Ends…

Let’s hold space for the truth:

💬 Life is hard.
💬 Healing is harder.
💬 But you are still here.

That’s a story worth telling.
Keep living. Keep healing.
Keep writing your chapters—because your story matters.