So many days I find myself wrapped up in my own struggle, my own issues, my overwhelmingly meaningless whatever problem of the moment. It's natural, because it's real, it's immediate, it's what's in front of me. But in the midst of my mess, I can usually find a single moment where for a brief second I can close my eyes, step out of my own shoes with all the muck they carry, and fill the soles of someone else's. For the life of me I can't remember this boy’s name, all I remember his story. We trekked for hours...
Success is really just about who you surround yourself with. If you feel like you're not where you want to be... look at who's in your corner, then cut the fat. Life's too short to sacrifice what you love for people who don't respect it. Fill that corner with those who's heart, dream and journey match your own. Like iron sharpens iron you'll build each other and succeed together. Jealousy won't hinder your stride, and one day when it's all said and done, you'll look back on the life you lived and not just love the work of your hands...
Good intentions are a powerful thing, yet as powerfully poisonous when given to the wrong person. Not everyone wants the same good for you as you do for them. Truth is, an insecure heart cannot see beyond its own hardened shell to embrace even the very thing that would set it free. Wisdom is learning how to shield one's good intent with discernment, then pouring it out where it will grow most. Because while one man will be forever grateful for your kindness, the next will despise your heart, twist your words and wield your good intentions as a weapon...
If you're waiting for someone's approval to go out and do what you love, you're better off becoming comfortable with what you despise. Because one by one the moments will pass you by, time will slip through the cracks and everything you once dreamed of doing will be nothing more than a bitter reminder of the leap you never took. Turn off the voices that raise your doubts, turn up what your heart wants most... and JUMP. Unapologetically.