When I look back fifteen or even twenty years ago, I can say without doubt that I am not the same person I used to be. Life has a way of shaping people through experiences, challenges, and decisions. In my case, many things about me have changed over the years, yet I still hold on strongly to my core beliefs. Sometimes, I did things that went against those beliefs, and I regret some of them, but I also realize they were part of my journey. If my past self were to see me today, I think I would recognize the person on the outside, but maybe not completely on the inside, because so much growth and transformation has taken place.
As a child, I was more innocent, more carefree, and I thought life was simple. I believed everything was either right or wrong with no middle ground. I looked at adults and thought they had all the answers. Growing up proved me wrong. I began to face situations where the choices were not always clear. There were times I had to make decisions that tested my values. Sometimes I stood firm, but other times I failed and made choices I knew deep down were not aligned with what I believed in. Those moments taught me that growth is not about being perfect but about learning from mistakes and moving forward.
The biggest change in me happened during my teenage and early adult years. That was the point where I began to see life differently. I realized that people are not just “good” or “bad” but that everyone is dealing with their own struggles. I also realized that holding on to my beliefs is important, but life will challenge them, and I must decide whether to bend or stay strong. There were times I bent, and I am honest about that. For example, I sometimes allowed peer pressure or emotions to push me into things that I later regretted. Those decisions hurt, but they also opened my eyes. They showed me the importance of standing firm and not letting temporary feelings destroy lasting values.
Looking back now, I can say I have grown into a stronger, wiser, and more reflective person. I am not as quick to judge as I was years ago. I am also more patient and more understanding. The experiences I passed through changed me. I no longer see life in black and white only, but I have not abandoned what I believe in. Instead, I hold them even more dearly because I know what it feels like to live outside them. If my younger self saw me now, there might be surprise at the maturity, at the lessons, and at the strength I carry, but also some recognition, because deep inside, I am still the same person who wants to do the right thing.
In the end, life changed me, but it did not erase me. I am not the same as I was years ago, but I am grateful for who I have become.
