Lights & Truth

Tag: personal-development

Shine Brighter

July 28th, 2025

For those who were chosen to lead

Blood Before Fruit

To be chosen sounds like a blessing.
And in many ways, it is. But like all sacred things, the role comes with a price.

Those who are chosen to be first are chosen to lead.
To lead is to walk a path that no one has cleared for you.
No one has swept the stones.
No one has warned you where the thorns are.
No one has mapped the terrain.

You will bleed before you ever taste fruit.

That’s why preparation is spiritual. It’s mental. It’s physical.
Because only the Most High knows what lies ahead of you.
And if you trust that, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.

Becoming the Servant

Eventually, after the pain, the trials, and the discipline—you harvest fruit.
But the fruit was never the reward. It was the evidence of the journey.

Every fruit contains seed. And every seed must be replanted.
As one of the chosen, your mission isn’t to hoard what you’ve gained.
It’s to share it, to guide, and to help others rise.

The sweetness of the fruit is only yours for a moment.
You were never meant to keep it. You were meant to distribute it.

This is divine order.

Seeing the Purpose

Some are called to carry truth. Others are simply meant to walk in it.
Either way—truth doesn’t need our protection.
It is eternal. It cannot be owned.

When we try to secure the truth, we distort it.
We begin to protect our version of it.
And over time, we drift further from the essence of what it was.

Truth isn’t meant to be captured—it’s meant to be followed.
And the beauty of following the path is that it helps
even our fallen selves remember how to return home.

The Revelation

There are many reasons we stumble, but two stand out:

1. We distort the plan by forcing others into it.

Sometimes we bring people into our journey who aren’t aligned with it.
They haven’t walked what we’ve walked.
They haven’t earned the map.
So we alter the path to keep them with us.
And in doing so, we both become lost.

2. We want to be first, but fear what it takes.

We love the idea of being chosen, but shrink from the cost.
We want the reward without the ritual.

But if we do reach the mountaintop, it’s not a place to stay.
It’s a place to see further—and to send down seeds.

Because the fruit is not the reward.
The journey is.

Call to Action: Shine Brighter

You were chosen. And you were called.
Don’t let fear of the journey dim your light.

If the path is hard, that’s confirmation—not rejection.
If you’re ahead, don’t wait—lead.

Remember, the fruit is never the goal. It’s the proof you’ve been walking.

So today, keep walking. Keep planting.
And shine brighter.
The Dream of the Moment

July 16th, 2025

Waking up for the first time in the morning, there is a certain peace.
Sometimes, if it follows a vivid dream, the world around you doesn’t even feel real. You lie there, just observing—still, quiet, untouched by anything external.

In that space, you are not reacting. You’re simply noticing. You are stillness itself.
But slowly, your mind begins to wonder—what would it feel like to participate in this moment?

You begin to receive impulses. The world becomes real again.
Something within you—many things, even—begin to stir.
You feel the beauty and the flaws of the moment at once.
You are no longer watching it—you are in it.

This new self is born, shaped by the moment. And because the moment feels beautiful—or intense, or fleeting—you try to preserve it. You try to hold on. You try to contain it in a glass case.

But that desire, however innocent, begins to change everything.

You forget that you were once just an observer. You forget that this moment came to pass, not to stay. You forget who you are.

Now you are the moment. And because you are the moment, you begin to want to change it.

But it was never yours to change.

That power belongs to the one who created the moment—not the one who wandered into it.

Frustration sets in. Then fatigue. Then silence. And you drift back into sleep—
a dream within a dream.

Until one day, you awaken again.
And the cycle repeats.

This is what it feels like to live in a world full of noise.
We don’t just observe it—we become it.
And in becoming it, we forget that we were always above it.

We spend so much energy trying to fix, perfect, or hold onto noise. But in truth, that was never our role. We were not meant to mold the moment—only to witness it, learn from it, and let it pass.

Stillness is the practice that returns us to clarity.
Letting go is the practice that returns us to peace.

When we stop caging experiences… when we release the illusion of control…
we begin to remember who we are.

And in that remembering, we find the freedom to move without fear.
To dream without attachment.
To act with clarity instead of confusion.

All moments come to pass. They were never ours to keep.
But they were always ours to witness.

Today, take one moment—any moment—and try not to change it.
Don’t label it good or bad. Don’t fix it.
Just sit with it. Breathe through it.
Let the noise pass, and listen for the signal underneath.

Who are you when you stop trying to become?
Becoming Free

November 9th, 2024

Becoming a Free Thinker: Cultivating Awareness Beyond the Ego

Becoming a free thinker is essential for developing a cautious awareness of the world around us. Yet, achieving this is nearly impossible when we operate solely through the ego. When we choose to view life through the lens of ego, we selectively seek out information that reinforces our existing beliefs, ignoring perspectives that might challenge them. This creates a cycle of judgment and reinforces a closed mind.

To truly believe in something, we must first question it. By staying open to all possibilities, we invite a deeper understanding of ideas that might otherwise remain unexplored. Only then do we experience freedom in our thoughts, which leads naturally to freedom in our actions.
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Enjoy The Small Things

November 7th, 2024

The Power of Diligence in Growth

Remaining diligent—staying focused, consistent, and committed to one’s responsibilities—is an invaluable trait. Diligence isn’t just about putting in effort; it’s about doing so in a way that reflects discipline and attention to detail. To be diligent means to keep showing up, especially for the tasks that might not bring immediate rewards. Often, when we stumble or encounter setbacks, it’s because we’ve grown complacent, or overly comfortable, in our actions. While it’s true that failure can be an excellent teacher, there’s a fine line between learning from failure and accepting it as an endpoint. Growth requires both resilience and the willingness to revisit overlooked details or minor tasks, even if they don’t seem pivotal at first. In the end, these “small” actions can have an immense impact on our progress and development.

For example, think of an athlete training for a marathon. If they skip stretching or hydration because these steps seem less critical than the run itself, they risk injury or burnout. Similarly, by consistently showing up for the smaller actions—like preparing, resting, and refueling—we gradually build a foundation that sustains us in the long term.
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Failing Is Okay

November 4th, 2024

Success and Failure: A Necessary Partnership

The path to success is paved with bricks of failure. This may sound counterintuitive, yet there’s no escaping the truth in it. Many of us chase success while avoiding failure at all costs. Ironically, this avoidance often comes at a high price. We’re willing to pay it, not just once but over and over, despite how elusive success remains for most of us.

The reality is that success, as we envision it, is often a mirage. We become so fixated on achieving a particular image of success that we never truly experience what it feels like. This post is an attempt to dispel myths about success and failure, so you can approach life with fewer obstacles and more fulfillment.
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I Am Because You Are

October 31st, 2024

Life is a team effort, and we should always strive to work effectively as a single unit. Learning how to lead and how to follow are essential to this. While anyone can become a leader, few step up to the challenge. And though following might seem easier, it’s also a skill that needs nurturing. Without knowing how to follow someone else’s lead, we may never reach our full potential within the roles we play. Let’s explore how to become a better team player, in any situation.
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Power of Discipline

October 28th, 2024
Unleashing the Power of Discipline

We are beings that are powerful beyond all measure. History has shown time and again that we are capable of accomplishing what once seemed impossible. We’ve soared through the sky like birds, dove into the depths of the ocean, and unlocked entire worlds hidden beneath the surface. But our greatest power often lies dormant, waiting to be awakened by a single force: discipline.

Discipline is the quiet strength that enables us not just to act but to refrain—to resist indulgence and focus on our true goals. It’s easy to think power is simply about doing whatever we please, but true power shows itself when we master restraint and stay the course, even when faced with setbacks.

Lessons from My Own Journey with Discipline

I’ve faced times in my life where discipline seemed to slip through my fingers. During these moments, I’d often dwell on the feeling of failing, wondering if I’d ever find the strength to regain control. Looking back, I realize that lingering in that mindset almost kept me from seeing my own progress. Yes, I wasn’t where I wanted to be, but that didn’t mean I hadn’t taken steps forward, even in failure.

In my journey, I’ve learned that discipline isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. We’re on a path, not at a destination. Each step, each effort, and even each stumble propels us forward. So long as we continue moving, we’re living the life we seek, even if it doesn’t always look the way we imagined.

Holding Steady Through Doubt and Challenges

There are times when staying disciplined feels like trying to hold onto a thin thread while facing a storm. Progress may not always be visible, and the urge to let go, to stop trying, can feel overwhelming. Many have taken that route, but it’s in our nature to rise again. No matter how far we fall, there’s something within us that pulls us back up, that whispers, “try one more time.”

For those of you who may have let go, remember, it’s never too late to pick up that thread again. If you’re still breathing, you still have a chance to do whatever you were meant to do. And for those of you who are holding on, weary and unsure, try to hang on just a bit longer. Look back at where you were, and let yourself be proud of the distance you’ve traveled, no matter how small it might seem.

Practical Steps for Cultivating Discipline
1. Set Small, Achievable Goals: It’s easy to feel defeated when our goals are vague or too big to measure. Start small, setting manageable targets that you can build on over time. Progress builds confidence.
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Discipline thrives on resilience, not self-punishment. When you slip up, acknowledge it, learn from it, and move forward. Let go of guilt, and focus on what you can do next.
3. Create a Support System: Share your goals with someone who can help hold you accountable. Whether it’s a friend, mentor, or even a journal, having a space to express your struggles can make a difference.
4. Reward Yourself for Progress: Celebrate the small wins! Recognizing your own progress, even if it’s just a small step, reinforces the habit of discipline and motivates you to keep going.
Keep Faith in Yourself

Sometimes I feel deeply compelled to share these reflections, and today is one of those days. If you needed to hear these words, then I’m grateful I could be of service. I believe each of you holds a strength within, capable of overcoming challenges and reaching the heights you aspire to. Discipline may not be easy, but it is worth it. And remember, as long as you stay true to yourself, nothing can stand between you and your dreams.

Reflect and Act

Take a moment to consider where discipline has played a role in your life. When have you let go, and what pulled you back? Where can you strengthen your resolve, even if it’s just one small step? Discipline isn’t built overnight, but every effort counts. Trust the journey, keep faith in yourself, and stay strong.
Let Go

October 27th, 2024
Embracing Darkness for Growth

Today’s truth topic is one that resonates with me on a deeply personal level, and it’s one of the hardest to discuss. Together, we’ll explore the real journey of personal growth and the inevitable challenges we face when reaching new levels of understanding. While it’s natural to seek happiness and light, sometimes darkness plays an essential role in our growth. This doesn’t mean seeking harm or negativity; rather, it means that real growth requires letting go of familiar identities and sometimes even people who no longer align with our path forward.

Becoming Who You Need to Be

I once heard, “You cannot become a successful person by being the person you are today. If that were truly your path, it would have worked by now.” This truth resonated powerfully, echoing through the room as the audience absorbed its weight. To achieve our goals, we often need to look within and adjust what’s no longer working. But remember, transformation doesn’t have to happen overnight. Sometimes, it’s the smallest shifts in mindset that bring about the greatest change.

Tiny Shifts, Big Impact

The Pareto Principle suggests that 80% of outcomes result from 20% of causes, showing us that even small changes can have a big impact. However, we sometimes struggle to release the things—or people—that reinforce our current identity. When we keep seeking reassurance about who we think we are, we end up repeating familiar cycles rather than experiencing new possibilities. As I often say to those seeking advice, be the proponent of the change you want to see in your life. Though it’s only the beginning, this shift is a powerful catalyst for growth.

The Role of Giving: Knowing What to Hold Back

Throughout my life, I’ve faced times when I thought, “I’ve finally made it.” Yet each time, I found myself slipping back into familiar patterns. I’ve long considered myself a giving person, which shaped my identity in profound ways. But I learned that giving too much of myself—whether it was time, money, or energy—often kept me tethered to situations I’d outgrown. Giving is vital, but what we give and to whom we give it can make all the difference. Boundless generosity, without boundaries, can sometimes keep us rooted in places we’re meant to leave.

“Don’t lose yourself in giving so much to others that you forget what you need to flourish.”

The Importance of Walking Away

Some people close to me have heard me say that I don’t believe in an outside force “holding us back.” More often than not, the challenges come from within our own circles or our own minds. Science tells us that opposite forces repel one another, so when we experience conflict, it’s usually between forces on the same pole, moving in opposing directions. As we rise to new levels of thought and understanding, we sometimes have to make the difficult choice to leave behind relationships, situations, or identities that feel comfortable but ultimately don’t support our growth.

“To truly transform, you have to be willing to walk away from the person you were and the people who held you there.”

The Power of Letting Go

Walking away is often one of the hardest things we can do, but sometimes it’s the most necessary step forward. For me, it took years to accept that walking away from certain relationships—including jobs, friendships, and even family members—was essential to my personal growth. This decision can feel taboo, especially when it involves family. But I believe that sometimes our strongest sense of belonging comes from creating space for who we are becoming, rather than clinging to what we’ve known. For a long time, I felt out of place within my own family, but I didn’t allow myself to fully acknowledge or act on those feelings until adulthood.

Questions for Reflection

If this resonates with you, here are some questions to consider:
- Have you ever thought about leaving a long-standing relationship but hesitated due to familiarity or obligation?
- Are there friends or family members in your life that you stay connected with more out of duty than genuine connection?
- Do you find it difficult to let go of roles or habits that keep you rooted in your comfort zone?
Reflecting on these questions may reveal areas in your life where change is waiting to happen.

A Call to Action: Choosing Growth Over Comfort

Growth is not a destination—it’s an ongoing journey that requires courage, honesty, and sometimes the strength to walk away. I invite you to reflect on where you may be holding on too tightly to the familiar, whether in relationships, beliefs, or habits. If you feel inspired, take a moment to write down your thoughts and share any insights or experiences in the comments. Letting go can be a transformative step toward the life you envision.

Embrace change. Embrace growth. Embrace the unknown.
Fall In Love

October 24th, 2024

The Power of Consistency: Finding Success through Love and Process

To reach meaningful success, it’s essential to embrace consistency in our actions and mindset. Simply aiming for specific goals isn’t enough; we need to find love and purpose in our pursuits. “Love” is a term used frequently, yet its true depth is often overlooked. Many interpret love in various ways, sometimes mistaking it for fleeting emotions or shallow connections. But love, in its fullest sense, goes beyond these definitions—it’s a profound commitment to growth and self-discovery. In our journey to succeed, we find that consistency, grounded in love, unlocks our potential and keeps us on track.

Understanding the Energy of Consistency and Love

As Nikola Tesla once said, “The key to understanding the universe is to think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration.” Tesla’s insight reminds us that when we align our actions with our values, we begin to resonate with our goals. It’s not just about setting a target; it’s about building a method that harmonizes with our aspirations. Without consistency and a roadmap, our goals are likely to remain out of reach.

To inspire consistency, consider simple but meaningful habits that foster progress. Actions like journaling your goals each morning, setting aside 15 minutes for mindful reflection, or practicing a daily skill related to your goals (like reading or exercise) are powerful ways to stay connected to your purpose. These actions may seem small, but over time, they compound to build a foundation of progress and fulfillment.

Fall in Love with the Process, Not Just the Results

Often, we get so focused on achieving a result that we miss the beauty of the process. Real fulfillment doesn’t come from a single achievement; it grows from the journey itself. Think of an artist who pours hours into refining a painting. While the completed work may be celebrated, the real joy comes from each brushstroke, each decision that brought the painting to life. When we fall in love with the process rather than the results, we find that every step contributes to our growth and satisfaction.

Reflecting on this, the Bible offers a reminder: “For the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10 KJV). Chasing success solely for rewards can lead to emptiness. True happiness comes from doing what fulfills us, not from chasing outcomes. When we focus on what brings us genuine joy and operate through love, challenges seem less daunting, and solutions often emerge naturally. Personally, I believe this is the essence of the “kingdom of heaven” that Christian teachings describe—a state of contentment that consistency and love can help us achieve.

Staying the Path: The Rewards of Consistency

“When you practice the Way, it is not just training in technique; it is spiritual forging.”

Awa Kenzō.

This advice is a reminder of the power in staying committed to our journey, regardless of whether we’re winning or facing setbacks. I once attended a commencement where Paul Allen urged graduates to “celebrate your achievements tonight, but tomorrow get up and act like nothing has happened.” His words resonated as a powerful reminder to stay grounded. Consistency requires resilience; it means pushing forward no matter what.

When things are going well, staying humble keeps us growing. When times are tough, remaining consistent keeps us moving forward. It’s this steady effort, not overnight success, that brings true rewards.

A Challenge: Building Habits of Success

Thank you for reading. I’d love to hear your thoughts! What are some challenges you’ve faced with consistency? What habits have helped you stay on track? Share your experiences in the comments below—I’d be thrilled to read and respond.

As a personal challenge, I invite you to try this: for the next month, choose three habits to commit to daily. These can be small but meaningful—perhaps a daily reflection, a brief journaling practice, or dedicating time to a skill you want to improve. Track your progress, and at the end of 30 days, reflect on any changes you notice in your mindset. Then, feel free to come back and share your journey! Success is a journey, and each of us has a path worth celebrating.