The other day I came across a meme. One of those bold beach signs with even bolder advice:
“Don’t even think about looking backwards. You’re not going that way.”

Okay, motivational sign. I see you. I get it. Forward motion. Eyes on the prize. Focus, future, yadda yadda.

But here’s the thing: have you ever been on a beach?

Sometimes, looking back is exactly what you need to do. Not to wallow. Not to reverse. But to admire the view.

The clouds behind you might be doing a magical watercolor dance. The tide might have washed in a perfect seashell you missed the first time. And your footsteps? They’re a little wonky, a little scattered, but look at them they got you here. They carried your literal and metaphorical weight. That sand told your story.

Yes, I agree with the meme’s intention: don’t live in the past. Don’t drag old drama onto new shores. But also? Don’t be afraid to glance back with gratitude. Take a mental snapshot. Marvel at how far you’ve come. Appreciate what you survived, even if your beach walk included some stubbed toes and awkward flip-flop squeaks.

Growth isn’t always a straight line from “back then” to “what’s next.” Sometimes it loops, reflects, and pauses for a moment of awe.

So here’s my addendum to the meme: Don’t dwell backwards. But go ahead, turn around for a second. The sunset might be behind you.

Then reapply your SPF, face forward, and strut into your future like the fabulous beachwalker you are.