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Who Do You Identify With In The Sea Of Life?

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While attending Medgar Evers College, I was introduced to the worlds renowned author Ms. Iyanla Vanzant. My public speaking professor began each class with a daily meditation from Acts of Faith which was authored by Ms. Vanzant. Eventually, I purchased this book and a few others. Years later, I continue to read the Acts of Faith.

While sitting at my desk, I turned to today's meditation and my eyes made it's way to the bottom of the page. The message stated "I know who I am in the sea of life." After reading it, I reversed it and asked myself two questions. "Do you know who you are in the sea of life?" "Who do you identify with in the sea of life?"

My eyes scrolled back to the top of the page and I began to read today's daily meditation. As I am reading, I realize I have encountered almost every fish that was mentioned. This made me think about the people I have crossed paths with in the past, as well as, in the present. It also caused me to think about my life's journey thus far. It was never stated that the journey of life would be easy. 

We will face obstacles. We will face struggles such as finances, employment or lack of employment, family issues, health and wellness, relationships, friendships among other things. I know my journey through life has not been easy, but I am forever grateful. I have encountered some of the struggles listed above. Some due to the choices I chose to make and some as a result of others.

It is very difficult to face my fears, struggles, obstacles or whatever I choose to call them. It will be and can be a very dark, scary and lonely place. However, it is in that moment, in that space that I must lead by example and become one with my obstacles. It is in that moment I have to identify, become familiarn expose and come face to face with my struggles, obstacles and/or fears. I realized it is in that moment I must make the decision to Stand In My Truth so that I  can be carried gracefully into my future, my purpose and live my best life.

Photo Credit: RaisingBrownGirls
I went a step further and asked, "Who do you want your children to identify with in the sea of life?"  I do not want my daughters to identify  or hang out with any of the fish listed in the meditation. I want them to be true to themselves at all times. Life is all about perspective and I want them to see and live life from all angles. I want my daughters to have an amazing life experience. I do not want them associating with people who are going nowhere fast. I do not want them associating with people whose lips are constantly moving, but are saying nothing. I do not want them associating with people who have no ambition or with people who do not have a mind of their own. I do not want them attacking anyone in any way nor do I want them to be attacked by anyone. 

At the end of the day, I as well as my daughters are bound to cross paths with one, two or three MetroCard. Nonetheless, I want them to swim upstream, seek new experiences and opportunities. I want them to learn new things, motivate and mentor others. I also want them to know that things do not always go as we planned and they should not use that as an excuse. Instead, they should use that as a chance to come up with an alternative approach or to have new outlook on things regardless of the situation. 

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