👉 Need a little structure or support? Check out the Pen Your Past Starter Kit.
Why This Might Be Worth Writing About
Some lessons don’t show up with warning signs.
They sneak in quietly — through daily responsibility, exhaustion, or even love.
Sometimes we take something on thinking, “This will help,” only to realize later how much work, sacrifice, or emotional weight it brings.
But writing about what we’re learning — especially the hard way — can help us see our own growth.
It lets us reflect on what we’ve handled, how we’ve changed, and what we’d do differently next time.
You might even discover that some of your hardest lessons have become your proudest moments.
If You’re Not Sure Where to Begin…
✨ You don’t have to write a book to tell your story.Just start with one small memory — and let it count.
My Life, One Story at a Time
So in 2021, I adopted four pets — two dogs and two cats. I thought they’d fill the silence and bring joy (and they have), but I didn’t realize how much responsibility I was taking on.
Now I live alone and care for them all myself.
Vet bills, allergy meds, daily care — it never ends. There are no days off. No easy vacations.
And the hardest part? Knowing I’ll probably outlive them. That part breaks me a little.
But still… I’m glad I did it.
They’ve given me love, purpose, and so many lessons in patience and planning.
If you’re thinking about getting a pet (or taking on anything big), here’s what I’d say:
🐶 Adopt — don’t shop. But do it with your eyes open.
🐶 Get pet insurance if you can.
🐶 Think about how this decision will feel when life gets hard — not just when it’s cute.
✍🏼 Share Your Prompted Story
👉🏼 You’re welcome to share your story here. From time to time, I feature reader stories in my newsletter.
📖 Keep the Stories Going
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Explore Other Stories in the Series
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Looking Ahead
I’ll be back next week with another prompt to spark your memories.
It might be a question, a moment, or a detail you haven’t thought about in years — and you never know where it might take you.
Until then, keep writing, even if it’s just a few sentences.
The smallest memories often grow into the stories that matter most.
With Love,
Kari 💚
