Whole

Whole. What comes to mind when you think of this word? Let’s look at some definitions of the word “whole.”

Whole
• all of; entire
• in an unbroken or undamaged state; in one piece
• a thing that is complete in itself
• all of something

When we think of the word “whole,” we often think of items or stuff, like a whole slice of a three-layered double-chocolate cake, a whole pepperoni pizza with extra cheese, or a whole pint of ice cream. There are even positive sayings about items that are not whole or full. Look at the glass half full, not half empty. Something is better than nothing at all. We think of stuff when we think of whole, but what comes to mind when you examine yourself with regard to the definition of “whole”? What about the positive sayings about having a piece of something or incompleteness? Will having healthy pieces of yourself ever equal an abundant life?

Let’s go back to the definition of “whole” and consider what it looks like in an individual. An individual who is whole is unbroken, is undamaged, not lacking, and is in one piece. He or she is full and complete without the help or need of any other person or item. So after a formal definition and in the context described, do you consider yourself whole?

Well, I’ll be honest. There was a time when I was not whole. In fact, I was broken to the point where I was unrecognizable to the people closest to me. I didn’t even recognize myself. The harsh reality of this world can really get to us if we allow it. That’s what happened to me. I was an intelligent, all-star student, a well-traveled, cultured, and college-educated child of God, but I was on the road to destruction. It could happen to anyone. However, everyone, no matter how broken, has the opportunity to be made whole and live a life of gratitude and purpose! That’s good news!

You may be familiar with the Hebrew term shalom. Even though we see it used as “hello” and “goodbye,” it actually translates to wholeness, peace, tranquility, completeness, harmony, and prosperity (Online Etymology Dictionary, 2021). Close your eyes and imagine a whole you. Imagine your heart being so filled with love, peace, and harmony that it overflows to the people around you. Imagine waking up every morning and laying your head down every night with a smile on your face and a heart filled with gratitude and peace.

This workbook will lay out the principles you need to
1. discover and redefine who you are;
2. address and release your insecurities, current pain, and the pain of your past;
3. transform or renew your mindset; and
4. excel into your purpose.

Remember that this is a process, and it will not happen overnight. It may be difficult as we live in a time that is filled with instant gratification—fast food, same-day shipping, digital photos, downloadable applications, and information literally in the palm of our hands have spoiled us to wanting what we want now. It will take time, work, and consistency. This workbook is a guide that requires you to find yourself in the knowledge on these pages through various activities. So be honest because you will discover that your words will be an important reference in your process. Your comments, notes, and answers will bring this book to life for you as it can be used as a plan of action for your life. Also, please use the resources in the back of this workbook as you progress. Each resource is categorized by topic in the text.

Let me be the first to commend you on your decision! Our will is the most powerful gift God has given us, and you have chosen to take the first step to become whole!