What do you hold as your core belief?

Is it the God of Western Christianity, Catholicism, or the LDS faith? Is it rooted in Judaism, Buddhism, or Hinduism? Or perhaps you identify as an atheist?

Take a moment to reflect on this; it’s crucial to my argument.

If you have clarity on your belief, then ask yourself: Why do you hold this belief? Is it a guiding force? Does it provide moral clarity? Does it empower you to act with compassion, or does it prevent you from being consumed by negativity?

All of us, regardless of the scale of our intentions, believe in something. Even if that belief is simply the idea of making a positive impact in a world striving for progress.

What astounds me is that, despite our individual insignificance, there exists within us the potential to leave a mark on the world. I find that exhilarating.

This... energy.

So, what does this signify?

It signifies that to create an impact, to recognize our significance, is to answer a calling unique to each of us. This calling drives us towards authenticity; it encourages us to live fully and to leave behind a legacy that matters. It’s about contributing to something greater than ourselves.

Isn't it beautiful that something so abstract can inspire us to fight for our souls and those of others? It shouts freedom, creativity, and authenticity.

Could this be romanticism? As a romantic at heart, I certainly hope so.

Note: Authenticity devoid of violence or destructive malice is genuine. Authenticity emerges once we confront our inner turmoil, resolve our resentments, and commit to being beneficial rather than detrimental to the world.

This is why believing in something holds value.

Whether your belief is religious, spiritual, or scientific, its primary importance lies in how it guides you toward discovering your purpose. Without this, life feels meaningless—a state of nihilism, misanthropy, and pessimism that lingers within you, regardless of how much you try to ignore it.

In his book The War of Art, Steven Pressfield discusses the concept of Resistance.

It's one of the most brilliant works I’ve encountered regarding self-confrontation and engaging with the world. It occupies a permanent spot on my nightstand, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Resistance manifests in many forms, including those mornings when getting out of bed feels impossible. It whispers that you’re too tired or that the risk isn’t worth taking. It’s the universe testing your commitment to your desires.

Resistance not only challenges your discipline but also your very identity, coaxing you to conform when every fiber of your being yearns for more. It tempts you to stay in your comfort zone and face the world stripped of confidence and filled with fear.

That same resistance beckons you to move forward with courage, even when the thought makes you want to retreat and hide.

Sigh

I believe in evolution. I accept that the universe and our existence are products of chance, and that our dominance as a species holds no special significance. Yet, within this randomness lies our capacity to either enhance or diminish our world. At our core, humanity possesses an intrinsic drive to improve life, fueled by love and the chemistry of connection.

We are drawn together; we merely need to embrace it.

I find peace in the notion that our experiences and feelings are coincidental. I don’t require a higher power to validate my value or effectiveness; I’ve always pursued these ideals, even in the absence of clear answers.

I am empowered by my own beliefs.

So, why is this significant?

Because, irrespective of your views on life, the universe, and our purpose, we all encounter a shared struggle. It affects us both individually and collectively.

This battle is our daily quest to embody goodness. We all wrestle with it.

The Resistance is palpable.

What this means is that we can determine how to conquer it. Victory equates to embracing our true selves. It’s about expressing our unique essence and offering that to the world.

I endure daily hardships, but I do so willingly. I am aware of the alternative—a version of myself I can no longer tolerate.

My past self is ever-present, waiting for me to surrender, and I find that terrifying.

Each day offers a choice: to yield or to propel myself forward. To trust in my abilities. To recognize that each small victory outweighs numerous setbacks. To acknowledge that momentum will eventually favor me. To believe that my efforts to reshape my mindset will reward me after years of doubt and darkness.

What truly counts is the struggle against Resistance:

• To face challenges with resilience
• To find strength and humor in our suffering
• To create even when inspiration feels distant
• To endure solitude, recognizing its gifts
• To pour our emotions onto a canvas, awaiting beauty to emerge
• To express ourselves in ways that uplift both ourselves and others
• To push boundaries and embrace discomfort for the slightest progress
• To transform our pain into a foundation for creativity and liberation

We all seek connection, empathy, and relatability with other brave souls. We are all up against Resistance, which wears many disguises, testing each of us uniquely.

Our differences lie in how and what we believe in. However, what unites us is simply that we believe.

At the outset, I mentioned that we might be mistaken in thinking our purpose will come to us effortlessly. Here’s what I truly mean: I’ve dedicated so much time to self-discovery, as we all do, waiting for something external to reveal my path. Expecting a sign that says, ‘Here it is. You’ve found your purpose. Now, you can begin your journey.’

I apologize, friends, but this isn’t how it unfolds. What becomes clearer over time is this: You must delve inward to discover yourself. It’s not found externally; it’s cultivated from within. It’s not a treasure to be unearthed; it’s a quality to nurture.

The insights, the readings, the classes, and intellectual growth merely assist in defining who you choose to be.

But, what you choose to be emerges through action, self-reflection, and the courage to confront the unknown.

It’s a relentless battle against Resistance. Not occasionally, but consistently—every time you can muster the strength to fight back.

This has been my most profound realization: Much of my dissatisfaction stems from my inaction, my inclination to take it easy rather than push forward.

If you accomplish nothing else, do this: FIGHT THE RESISTANCE.

Believe in your capacity to triumph repeatedly. Believe in never allowing it to gain the upper hand. Believe that every decision is pivotal in determining whether you remain stagnant or progress. Believe that you possess more strength than you realize. It’s not about fearing overexertion; it’s about fearing complacency. Believe that any action will bring you closer to your truth. Believe that the true Resistance is you, and only you can overcome it.

Just believe. Fight it.

With love and trust, dear reader. I cherish you.

An essential reminder of our humanity: We face numerous struggles, often exhausting ourselves in battles against one another. Yet, the wisdom of true greatness reveals that all these conflicts pale in comparison to the fight for self-discovery.

The differences we argue over and the conflicts we engage in are trivial next to the battles we face within ourselves.

Why? Because the victory in becoming a beautiful soul and an impactful individual transcends our petty disagreements. Through our journey towards completeness, we dissolve perceived injustices and obstacles. What we focus on shapes both our lives and the world around us. By embracing the good, potential, and inclusivity of our shared existence, we can rise above negativity and divisiveness.

If you resonate with my musings and inquiries, you might also enjoy the engaging discussions on my podcast, The Rebel Minded Podcast. Find it on Substack, Spotify, Apple, and Google Podcasts.

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Remember... question everything!