Light the Way

In this giant world of social media, who takes centerstage? Does anybody else feel left in the dark? Like the issues that matter to me aren’t important to anyone else. Don’t feel ashamed if you are not in the spotlight. Who knows when your turn will come? I’ve posted online for years. I have no idea how to gain a following. I can’t sell you anything except short stories and poetry woven together through my imagination. I majored in underwater basket weaving in college. Basically!

Your story could resonate with wide audiences if you ever had the opportunity to spread your message. We all want to be seen and heard, acknowledged for our strengths and forgiven for our mistakes. We all contribute in different ways. No one wants to be remembered solely for their weaknesses or their silences. Silence is not always a weakness. A fully expressed human being will pause and reflect, take risks without always demanding outward success, and persevere through grit. Someone who is alive on the inside may take time to collect their thoughts, process their emotions, and pursue their passions.

Life is best divided into three categories: study, rehearsal, and performance. The moments that teach us the most about ourselves and the world around us often occur in-between these stages. We build understanding, knowledge, and wisdom through relationships, not always when we are in the spotlight. “You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him” (Malcolm S. Forbes).

Building character is more powerful than any architectural feat. Don’t give up. You are worth more than the pavement beneath your feet, even if the roads are paved with gold. You have a human soul. That means your growth is greater than the tallest tree and more beautiful than the most intricate flower. God addresses you through Scripture. You can communicate with the divine power, so keep that heart door open. Put God first, above human connection, above internet connection. Don’t sell out your faith or family for a little online attention.

In school, I met so many people who could turn on and off charisma, like a light switch. They withdrew from a relationship as soon as they felt it no longer served them. Truly, their ego was on the throne. Being in a position of power and influence was all they valued.

We learn who we are through relationships, not just when we perform a solo.

My former ballet teacher taught me this lesson: Miss a day of class and the artist will know it. Miss two days of class and the teacher will know it. Miss three days of class and the audience will know it.

Stay focused on your craft. Don’t ignore the significance of study, rehearsal, and performance. Some people go as far as philosophizing that life is a dress rehearsal and the Hereafter is the actual show. No matter your beliefs, give each day your all.

Some people feel at home on a stage. Some people feel comfortable in silence. Some people feel freedom when they see a blank page. It’s your world. Find your pearls. String them together into prayer beads and recite blessings. You have the obligation of illuminating the space you’re in. You are a light. You are precious.

So, I plead with you to show up every day. I invite you to ignite the way. Abide in His will. Tomorrow is another day. Prepare for it today. As Malcolm X said, "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today."

Best,

Yeru