The Summer of 35

Diplomacy in a New Season This season, I’m learning to be more diplomatic—with family, friends, and even a few foes. There's something deeply empowering about addressing matters calmly while still remaining true to yourself. It's a new skill I’m embracing, and it’s teaching me more about who I am and who I want to become.  Younger Me Didn’t Know How In my younger years, expressing my emotions or confronting people felt almost impossible. I would cry or completely shut down when situations got too hostile or emotionally charged. I often lost the ability to express my thoughts clearly or stand by my feelings. I wanted to be heard, but I didn’t have the language or courage yet.  Coping Through Silence or Conflict Over time, I tried different methods of coping. Sometimes I’d say nothing at all—just ignore the person or the issue. Other times, I’d find myself arguing or pushing back in ways that weren’t productive. (Let’s be honest—yes, I’ve even fought with people before. La...

— Good Friday Reflections on Spiritual Growth and Personal Belief Good Friday is upon us—a day that has historically symbolized sacrifice, redemption, and deep introspection. Growing up, this day often came with tradition: going to church, dressing respectfully, sitting through solemn sermons, and quietly reflecting on the weight of the crucifixion. But this year, something within me feels different. I’m not just reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice; I’m reflecting on my own evolution—my spiritual journey, my changing values, and the way I experience God now. There’s a quiet, profound appreciation for the path I’ve walked to get here. Life has not always been easy. My faith has been tested repeatedly. I’ve wrestled with questions that don’t have neat answers, with pain that didn’t come with instant healing, and with silence from God that felt louder than any noise. Yet, in all of that, something remained—this persistent knowing that I am seen, I am loved, and I am called to something gr...

The Test of Discipline I’m falling in love with the choices I’m making this season. They’re not always easy, but they’re shaping me. The test of my discipline and commitment —to my company, my goals, and even my hobbies—is officially underway. Right now, I’m a B student —but best believe, by the end of this year? That’s changing. Because the life I want demands I pull up to it fully and show up boldly. No hiding, no cutting corners. Answering the Call The leadership, sacrifice, and transformation required to truly grow is immense. It stretches you in ways you didn’t think were possible. But in the stretch, I can feel the becoming. I see her—the woman I’m becoming. I see her in the small decisions. I see her blooming like a seed that was buried, watered, and is now pushing through the soil toward sunlight. Through the tiny cracks of this journey, I glimpse expansion, more, better. Born to Wander, Destined to Lead I’ve always had a little vagabond in me—a soul that doesn’t se...

A Heart Full of Gratitude This week, my heart is overflowing with gratitude —not just for the things that have worked out, but for the lessons, the struggles, and the persistence it has taken to get here. I’m amazed at God’s willingness to take my dreams, doubts, and anxiety about the future and still use me as a bridge to something greater. I’ve had so many chances to give up, to quit before I even saw the fruits of my labor. But something in me refused to let go. I didn’t sprint to success—I ran when I could and walked when I had to. And honestly? Some days, I just crawled. But I kept going. The Battle Against Self-Doubt I won’t lie— doubt has been loud . I’ve often questioned myself, especially in spaces where I don’t feel like I belong. Creativity has always felt natural to me , but when it comes to business and the admin that comes with it? Whew, let’s just say I’m not quite there yet. The learning curve has been steep, exhausting, and often discouraging . But here’s ...