Reclaiming Your True Self: A Journey of Love & Renewal

'Stories and Other Things Holy' Episode 21:

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Always Loved

Hello dear friends,

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to truly remember who we are, especially in the quiet spaces where our past and our present gently meet. In this week’s episode, Terry unfolds a memory that carried both the bittersweet pain of letting go and the profound hope of being held by love. There’s something deeply moving about how our stories—especially the ones that expose our vulnerabilities—have the power to remind us of our inherent worth.

I was struck by the raw honesty in Terry’s recollection of that night with his mom. It wasn’t just about makeup or routine; it was about the fragile, unspoken truth that, even when we feel diminished or lost, there is a sacred strength in knowing we come from love. That moment of care—of brushing away years of unspoken burdens—became a quiet testament to the healing that comes when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. It reminded me that our identity isn’t fixed or defined by our past; rather, it’s continuously reshaped in those tender moments when we allow love to seep in and transform us.

Listening to Terry’s story, I felt an invitation to look closely at my own life—to ask myself where I might be holding back, where I might be too busy to notice the little, beautiful details that reveal our true self. Sometimes, in the rush of daily life, we let the weight of old stories obscure the simple truth of our existence. But when we pause, even for a moment, we see that we are always held, always loved, and always capable of being made new.

I hope that as you listen to this episode, you too will find a space to reconnect with the parts of you that have been quietly waiting for recognition. Let this be a gentle reminder: even in our moments of quiet despair or when familiar roles seem to slip away, the source of love remains constant. We are held, we are cherished, and every new day gives us a chance to remember who we really are.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. I invite you to reflect on these themes and consider sharing your own stories of vulnerability and renewal—because together, our shared stories light the way to healing.

In gratitude and love,
Joshua Minden

GRACERCISES

Here are three prayer-prompts to accompany this episode and reflection, designed to help you enter into prayer and personal renewal:

1. Holding the Moment

Find a quiet space and gently place one hand over your heart. Close your eyes and recall a moment—big or small—when you felt deeply loved or cared for. As you breathe slowly, silently thank God for that moment of grace. Let the memory remind you that even in our quietest times, we are held and cherished.

2. Reclaiming Identity

Take a few minutes with a journal or piece of paper. Write down three qualities or memories that remind you of who you truly are—beyond the roles and labels of your past. Then, in prayerful silence, ask God to help you reclaim and celebrate that authentic identity. Reflect on how these parts of you are gifts, continuously renewed by divine love.

3. Becoming a Prayer

Sit comfortably and focus on your breath. As you inhale, silently affirm, “I am here. I am loved.” With each exhale, release any weight or worry you’ve been carrying. Continue this cycle for several minutes, allowing your repeated affirmation to transform into a heartfelt prayer. Notice how, in this moment of surrender, your very presence becomes a living prayer—a testament to the transformative power of grace.

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Each of these practices is an invitation to be present—to let God meet you in your vulnerability, renew your spirit, and remind you that your true identity is found in love. Enjoy this time of connection and reflection.