You just don’t know it yet
It’s official! I’ve embarked on a fulfilling journey, even though I once doubted myself during my transition from girlhood to womanhood. As I contemplated writing this birthday blog, I found myself revisiting last year's entry repeatedly. I see a continuity between the two and felt compelled to merge them while reflecting on the past year. If you're beginning to read, know that I'm just starting to write.
As I pondered the idea that it still feels like I'm in the extended days of lockdown. This led me to consider how adaptable we can be when we choose to follow God and avoid dwelling on depressing complaints.
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:3-4
As a believer, my faith is to spend moments with DaddyGod and He moves me to do good works. It has been challenging to have less of me and to choose Jesus daily. After all we are human born of the world. But it has always been grace.
And in His word, it says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
Transformation always takes time and this change can be uncomfortable, often driving us to seek quick results rather than enduring the process.
“I'm wild but i found grace.”
Surprisingly, these three words (SLOW, LIVE, CREATE), initially just a hashtag, have gained profound significance in my life. What began as a personal inspiration has evolved into a tagline with a broader influence, resonating with fellow creators.
This philosophy aligns with the mission of the SLC community, encouraging creatives to embrace slow seasons and recognize the importance of their unique journey. The focus is on staying aligned with one's purpose and vision rather than comparing oneself to others.
Today, compared to past decades, our influence extends beyond those we personally know, thanks to the convenience of technology. However, we must exercise caution and not abuse the power it provides. Our younger generation, while equipped with incredible resources, faces potential burnout and shorter attention spans too. This rapid pace of modern life makes one wonder about our ability to absorb information, quicken our imagination, overcome fear, and adapt to change. Research even suggests that our brains can blur the lines between reality and imagination based on the vividness of our thoughts.
This phenomenon poses challenges for creativity, as they may idealize the "dream life" portrayed on social media. Can we draw healthy boundaries, and continue to have real conversations, have genuine relationships which is essential to nurturing one's creative potential and appreciating the value of the creative process?
How are we engaging in the present? Do we occasionally put our phones away to give our 100% or do we spend hours indulging in others’ dream lives vs creating?
This has encapsulated my personal journey over the past year, where I stayed to explore creative ideas that sustain and promote my project, SLC. It became clear that God was guiding me to follow a path characterized by slowness, living in the moment, and creative expression.
I don't know who needs to hear this, but slowing down is for you. You possess untapped creativity, and you can reach your fullest potential if you dare to try. We are naturally wired to fear change, but we can also embrace novelty.
My keynotes that highlight the importance of adaptability, boundaries, and self-belief from my personal and creative growth today:
Embrace Adaptability and Endure the Process
Life can throw unexpected challenges and changes at us, but it's essential to remain adaptable and avoid falling into negative thinking or complaints. Embracing change, even if uncomfortable, is crucial for personal growth and development.
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Recognize the Importance of Healthy Boundaries
In today's age of social media and constant exposure to curated stories, it's easy to compare ourselves to others and misconstrue reality. Setting healthy boundaries, engaging in real conversations, and building genuine relationships can help nurture your true creative potential and focus on your unique journey rather than comparing it to others.
Mediate: Mark 9:49-50
For everyone will be salted with fire. Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, how will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”
Believe in Your Creative Potential
Everyone has creative potential, even if they haven't realized it yet. It's essential to trust in your abilities, be open to trying new things, and understand that the creative process, including slow progress and challenging days, is a valuable part of your journey toward reaching your fullest potential and purpose-driven life.
Mediate: 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
So here I am at 38, without a concrete plan. SLC may remain small and impact only a few, but its essence remains strong. I write this to emphasize the importance of showing up, even when it is challenging. My hope is that these insights inspire you to pursue a purpose-driven life, without the need for a detailed roadmap – give yourself permission to try.
I believe in you. I truly believe that we can still be redeemed from what seems lost. There is still much time especially if you decide to begin now.
But then there’s grace. A gift we don’t deserve, but gives us the opportunity to make better decisions. To walk with God in righteousness. It’s easy to get caught up in (hustle) culture, but God is calling you to find grace (slowness) to make changes and the courage to stand out!
Research found for this topic:
Generation Persona
Reality or Illusion
