Unbottle Yourself

Hey there, amazing human!

How often do we genuinely answer the question, How have you been? It feels like a thousand times we miss the real reason why those words form a sentence of inquiry. We tell ourselves no one truly cares about the feelings we are hoarding or the struggles we are facing. Trust me, I get it. It's a common feeling, and there's nothing wrong with acknowledging it.

I'm a product of many people's efforts, and maybe that's why some say I'm quite popular or that I know a lot of people. This network has often helped me navigate my own challenges, and while I don't always get it right, one thing I've learned is this, I don't bottle up my feelings before. I spill them out. I don't even care if my problems become public knowledge, but this has changed lately, i find it difficult to speak about the things while my focus is on finding a solution and being truly happy. Oh, and speaking of happiness, I crave it like food, like water, like the peaceful whisper of ocean tides.

You're Not Alone: Dare to Believe

I dare you to believe that someone out there genuinely believes in your dreams. For me, I believe everyone has the potential for greatness within their own unique strengths and purpose. So, yes, I believe you were born for a purpose; you are a vital addition to this creation.

So, here's my challenge to you, spill yourself out. Talk to someone about your fears, your insecurities. Pour out everything you're holding in.

Think of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The Prince leaves his beloved rose and travels to different planets, encountering various adults who are so consumed by their own narrow pursuits that they miss the simple, profound truths of life. He learns about responsibility, love, and the importance of seeing with the heart, not just the eyes. His journey, filled with vulnerability and genuine connection, mirrors how we too must open up, share our inner worlds, and connect with others to truly understand ourselves and find our way. Just as the Little Prince sought to understand the world beyond his tiny planet, we must explore the depths of our own feelings and share them to truly grow.

Faith, Patience, and Finding Your Joy

When we truly believe that good things will come into our lives, and we show up with strength and optimism, we move so much closer to achieving everything we've set our hearts on.

Keeping our hearts open in faith, expecting good things, can sometimes be tough, especially when delays happen. But we have to remain resolute. We have to trust that things will fall into place. Lately, to boost my own happiness, I've been taking more pictures, exploring cool places, soaking in the serenity of nature, and meditating.

I've truly found love in meditation. It's helped me uncover old wounds and begin to heal them, keeping me grounded and redirecting my path toward shining brighter. It feels incredibly good. If you're trying it and not feeling instant progress, don't beat yourself up. See it as a process, enjoy the journey, learn, and keep moving forward.

This reminds me of the classic fable, The Tortoise and the Hare. The hare, with all its speed, rushes ahead and becomes complacent, ultimately losing the race. The tortoise, though slow and steady, never gives up. It simply keeps moving forward, one deliberate step at a time, until it reaches the finish line. Our journey to healing and happiness isn't always a sprint; often, it's a marathon. There will be delays and moments when you feel stuck, but like the tortoise, consistent effort and unwavering faith in your process will get you to where you need to be.

Don't Settle for Less

As we grow, our perspectives on people shift. But please, don't view everyone through the same lens. Our levels of loyalty, respect, honesty, and support vary. It's crucial to understand each person's place in your life so you don't expect too much and end up disappointed.

Don't sabotage your own process. You're not doing badly; just keep moving forward, but don't settle for less.

This applies to relationships too. I recognize I deserve more, even as I deeply appreciate every effort people make to help me grow. I also strive to help others thrive and pay kindness forward.

Think of Cinderella. Despite her cruel stepfamily and humble circumstances, she never settles for a life of misery. She maintains her kindness, her hope, and her belief that good things are possible. She doesn't just passively wait; she seizes the opportunity when it arises, even if it means bending the rules a little (like staying out past midnight!). Her story is a powerful reminder that even when things are tough, holding onto your worth and actively working towards a better future is key. You, like Cinderella, deserve your own happily ever after, and it starts with refusing to settle for anything less than what you deserve.

What's my ultimate message? You are precious. Your faith will guide you exactly where you're meant to be in this life. Don't hold back from doing the good things you want to do. You are a star, and I'll be rooting for you every step of the way.

Your fellow work in progress,

'Jide