Midlife is better when we share what works.
This week’s Pen Your Past™ prompt is here to help you pause, reflect, and write just one story that matters.
👉 Need a little structure or support? Check out the Pen Your Past Starter Kit
.

This Week’s Pen Your Past Prompt

What’s something you’re learning the hard way — but you’re still glad you did?
What did it teach you about yourself, life, or what really matters?

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…

  • What’s something you said “yes” to before realizing how much it would change your life?
  • Did you adopt a pet, take on a job, or buy something that turned out to be more than you expected?
  • What advice would you give someone thinking of doing the same?
  • Is there anything you’re still struggling with — but wouldn’t undo if given the chance?
  • How has this shaped your routines, your mindset, or your self-respect?
✨ 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

After raising my son and watching him start his own life, I found myself in a very quiet house.
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

Want to respond to this prompt (even just a few lines)? I’d love to feature it in a future post or newsletter!

📭 Click here to submit your story

Save or Share This Prompt

Looking Ahead

Next week’s post is about expectations — and a little surprise. You’ll be invited to write about something you never planned on… but that turned out to shape your life.

Until then — keep writing, even if it’s just a little.
You never know what small memory might turn into a story that matters.

With Love,
Kari 💚

Other Posts You May Enjoy

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *