Milk is good while it’s fresh. But it can make us sick once it has spoiled. And the same is true when it comes to identities and relationships that have passed their expiration date. What was good and uplifting in one season can become toxic and harmful when this season has passed.
For instance, we might have been Mr. Popular or Mr. Star Athlete in high school. And maybe we used our influence to bless the lives of others. But these are no longer identities to take with us after graduation. Of course, our past will shape who we become. But this is not the same as trying to take our high school identity with us into adulthood. It has expired and new identities must be formed. The same is true when it comes to past dating relationships and even certain friendships.
While dating, others gain access and certain privileges in our lives that would be inappropriate outside of this relationship. If this relationship progresses into marriage then even more access, privilege, and rights are obtained, but after a breakup, our identity and access to each other as a couple has now expired. And we must treat it as such or risk spoiling all our future dating relationships even before they start.
Likewise, great childhood friends might not make great friends as adults. And we don’t have to despise them or look down on our time together. But it may be that the season for our friendship has simply expired and it’s time to find new friends today.
Whatever it looks like, we must regularly consider if we’re holding on to things from our past that have spoiled. While we honor and bless the past for its gifts to us, we don’t poison our present by holding onto things that have expired.
In the end, enjoy the freshness of each new season. And be willing to let go of past identities or relationships that have now expired. Don’t spoil your present by holding on to your past.
