STOP HIDING, IT’S YOUR TURN - Dr. Herbert H. Thomas, Jr.

Samuel summoned the people of Israel to the Lord at Mizpah 18 and said to them, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I delivered you from the power of Egypt and all the kingdoms that oppressed you.’ 19 But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your disasters and calamities. And you have said, ‘No, appoint a king over us.’ So now present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes and clans.” 20 When Samuel had all Israel come forward by tribes, the tribe of Benjamin was taken by lot. 21 Then he brought forward the tribe of Benjamin, clan by clan, and Matri’s clan was taken. Finally Saul son of Kish was taken. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found. 22 So they inquired further of the Lord, “Has the man come here yet?” And the Lord said, “Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies.” 23 They ran and brought him out, and as he stood among the people he was a head taller than any of the others. 24 Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see the man the Lord has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.” Then the people shouted, “Long live the king!”

(1 Samuel 10:17-24)

My first job after graduating from Alabama State University was with the Alabama Department of Corrections. While working there, I came across many inmates with remarkable talents and skills, both young and old. Some even had college degrees and specialized skills. Unfortunately, many of these individuals, facing life sentences, abandoned the possibility of living a fulfilling life while they were incarcerated. Being surrounded by people who chose to stay on the sidelines rather than take advantage of opportunities was disheartening, especially when those people were gifted. It is tragic to see people settle for mediocrity instead of striving for greatness. Nothing is more discouraging than see- ing someone not take advantage of their opportunities. Rather, they meander through life in mediocrity. The act of leaving an opportunity on your doorstep is a sad one. God expects you to be the first to answer His call and walk through His door when opportunity arises. There are things you possess that are special to you, such as talents, gifts, education, and skills.

Our God opens doors of possibility for me, for you, for all of us. It is our God who knows the thoughts and plans He has for our prosperity, our future, and our hope. It is God who sets before us an open door that can never be closed and closes a door that can never be opened. Visions have been given to us by God that our minds have not seen and ears have not heard. Whenever we are called by God, He always prepares us for it. The people in your life who have prayed, paved, and paid for your progress have an expectation of you going further.

It’s time for the Body of Christ (those who are hiding) to stop hiding and take advantage of every opportunity God has provided. These keys include ministerial callings, spiritual gifts, prayer and fasting, education, specialized skills, talents, faith, vision, and relationships. You weren’t brought to this point so you could fade away and chill in the shadows of despair. Please ask Saul if you don’t think what I just said is sad. One of the most tragic stories in scripture is that of Saul, the first King of Israel.

To understand Saul, you must look back at the children of Israel when they entered the Promised Land. Upon entering, they were not a unified nation, but rather a confederacy of family tribes named after Jacob. The Israelites were governed by a tri-fold leadership of judges, prophets, and priests when they arrived to the Promised

Land. In time, the Children of Israel became increasingly dissatisfied with the leadership of the Judges, Prophets, and Priests. There are three reasons why they became dissatisfied and disgruntled: (1) Each succeeding generation became more corrupt than the last. (2) The Philistines, who were vying for the land God had given to Israel, served as a constant an imminent threat. (3) Most disturbing of all: Israel looked around and saw that Midianites, Amalekites, Amorites, and Canaanites all had kings, and God’s people wanted to be like everyone else. In order to blend in with common culture, they didn’t want to be distinguished by their faith. As a result, they go to God and ask for a king. In response to their request, God is displeased. In fact, He’s offended because they want to depend on a king rather than on Him. They know that God was responsible for:

• Provided them with manna from heaven.

• Made a rock produce water.

• Protected them from scorpions and serpents.

• They were led by a pillar of fire at night and by a cloud during the day.

• Delivered them from Pharaoh’s evil grip and gave them the Promised Land.

As a result, God gives them a king. Samuel is told by God that the king of Israel will come to his door the next day. Saul, son of Kish, went in search of some donkeys that had strayed from his father’s flock. A servant informs Saul that there is a prophet named Samuel down the road who can point them to the donkeys. Samuel heard Saul knocking on his door. Samuel was told by the Lord that Saul will become king. Samuel pulled Saul to the side and told him of his future. Saul has been chosen by God as Israel’s first king:

• In battle, he will lead Israel against the Philistines.

• In Israel’s history, no one has risen to this level.

• It will be he who prophesies and becomes king.

Let’s move on to Chapter 10. Among the twelve tribes of Israel, Saul was born to the tribe of Benjamin. His father, Kish, owned many flocks and herds and was wealthy. Saul, as a young man, was tall, handsome, and strong, and he was a natural leader. Known for his close relationship with God. Samuel was a judge and prophet in Israel. God told him the next king of Israel would come from the tribe of Benjamin. At Mizpeh, he gathers all of Israel to elect a king whom God has already cho- sen. They begin to cast lots. A lot falls on the Benjamin tribe, the Matri house, and the son of Kish. As a result, Saul is elected.

It’s a wonderful time. The coronation of King Saul is now in progress. It’s a day when Saul would rise to prominence. It’s a day when potential meets possibility. It says in the Bible that Saul was not to be found when they looked for him. Hold on, just a moment. You mean to tell me that Saul is nowhere to be found on this momentous occasion. Some versions of the Bible say he hid behind baggage, equipment, or stuff, while the KJV says he hid behind stuff. Nonetheless, he hid. Is there anything that would make a man hide on a day like this? What would make a brother refuse to take on a position God has provided for him?

• It would be like not attending one’s own birthday party.

• It’s like not attending your own graduation after you’ve invited everyone.

• It’s like not showing up to your own wedding.

In this article, we’ll look at 3 possible reasons why Saul hid behind some stuff on the day he was supposed to be anointed king.

#1 THE POSSIBILITY INTIMIDATES HIM. Essentially, he feels too overwhelmed by the moment. Samuel tells Saul two things: (1) you will prophesy and (2) you will become king. Saul has never done either, but Samuel says he will. As you read chapter 10, you will see Saul going up a hill and a group of prophets coming down the hill. When Saul begins prophesying with them, the men ask, is this not the son of Kish? When he gets to Mizpeh and is supposed to be king, Saul hides, because he is among the prophets.

QUESTION: Why would he willingly prophesy but hesitantly be a king if he’s never been a prophet? Considering both positions from God, why accept one willingly and avoid the other?

Reason: His reason for prophesying is that he saw other men prophesying, and he believed that he could do the same.

Nevertheless, when it came to becoming king, he hadn’t seen a king before. Like many people, Saul’s actions are limited by what he has seen others do.

• God has an assignment for you on the road to greatness, and you will be the first to complete it.

• God tells you to do what has never been done before

• God tells you to succeed where you’ve never succeeded before

• God tells you to achieve where you’ve never achieved before.

DON’T FEEL INTIMIDATED BY YOUR NEW ROLE

In 1 Samuel 9-10, we see that Saul was surprised by Samuel’s choice of him as king and was unsure of what to do. When Samuel anointed him with oil and told him that God had chosen him to be the leader of Israel, Saul responded, “Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then do you speak like this to me?” (1 Samuel 9:21). Despite being anointed as king, Saul resisted taking up the position. Samuel presented Saul to the people as God’s chosen leader, but he “hid himself among the equipment” and had to be brought forward by the people (1 Samuel 10:22-23). If we take a moment to pause and reflect, I believe we can all relate to the story of Saul. Where we have hidden behind our insecurities and doubts, afraid to step into the calling that God has for us. We may be afraid of failure, rejection, or the unknown. However, we must remember that God has chosen us for a specific purpose, and He will equip us with everything we need to fulfill our calling. We must have faith in God and trust that He will guide us on the right path. Despite our past, present, or future. God wants us to stop hiding and start embracing our divine calling. It requires us stepping out of our comfort zones, to trust in God’s plan for our lives, and use our God-given gifts and talents to make a positive impact in the world. Just like Saul, we can rise to our position of prominence and fulfill the destiny that God has for us. Let us have the courage and faith to step out and embrace our calling.

Saul’s reluctance to step into his destiny as king was rooted in his sense of inadequacy and intimidation. He may have felt that the moment was too big for him, giv- en that he had no prior experience as a king or a warrior. Saul was used to being a regular person, and the thought of leading a nation was overwhelming to him. Like many of us, Saul may have been tempted to set limitations on himself based on what he had observed others do. He had never seen anyone become a king before, so he might have thought that it was impossible for him to do it. This kind of self-doubt can be paralyzing, and it can prevent us from fulfilling our potential. However, God does not call us to do only what we have seen others do before us. He calls us to be pioneers and trailblazers, to accomplish things that have never been done before. God’s plan for Saul was to lead Israel as a king, and God knew that Saul had what it took to do the job. God saw something in Saul that Saul did not see in himself.

God has a plan and a purpose for each of our lives, and He equips us with the skills, abilities, and resources we need to fulfill our calling. We should not be intimidated by the size of the task, but rather, we should have faith in God’s ability to help us overcome any obstacle. We should step out in faith, trusting that God will lead us and empower us to do what we have been called to do. Saul’s story reminds us that we should not let fear and intimidation hold us back from pursuing our dreams and fulfilling our calling. We should trust in God’s plan for our lives and believe that He will enable us to achieve remarkable things, even if we have never seen them done before. When we feel intimidated by the possibility of a big moment or opportunity, there are a few things we can do:

• Pray: Take the time to pray and ask God for strength. Ask Him to help you overcome your fears and doubts.

• Focus on the present: Instead of worrying about the future or the unknown, focus on what you can do in the present moment. Take small steps towards your goal and celebrate every small win.

• Remember your past successes: Reflect on past accomplishments and successes you have witnessed with God. This can help build your confidence and remind you that you can always overcome challenges with God.

• Surround yourself with positive influences: Seek out people who will encourage and support you. Avoid negative people who might discourage you or make you doubt yourself.

• Challenge your limiting beliefs: Identify any limiting beliefs that may be holding you back and challenge them. Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and focus on your strengths and abilities. Remind yourself of the scripture, Philippians 4:13 (AMP), I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]

It’s okay to feel intimidated and scared, but you shouldn’t let those feelings deter you from pursuing your goals and dreams. You can overcome your fears by having faith, determination, and a positive attitude.

#2 HE FEELS INADEQUATE FOR THE POSITION.

Remember he’s becoming a king during the time when the Philistines are threatening an attack. This would demand that Israel’s king be a warrior, have a military background, know how to fight, know how to protect his people from the enemy. Problem with Saul, Israel needed a warrior, but there is nothing on his resume’ that said warrior. This is what we know:

• Saul has never been in a fight.

• Never threw a rock at a dog.

• He’s tall and handsome.

• Like many people, Saul has limited his ability to other people’s perception of his giftedness.

• Now, he has trouble believing that he can do something that requires a skill set that nobody has told him that he has.

• Nobody ever called him warrior.

• Nobody ever said he was strong.

• All he heard was that he was good looking and the battle he was about to face had nothing to do with good looks.

Saul falls into the trap so many people fall into:

• That’s being afraid that he would be exposed as inadequate.

• He doesn’t step up because he wanders within himself, do I really have what it takes?

• Do I have the skills?

• Do I have the capacity?

• Do I have the character?

• Do I have the ability?

You Are Sufficient With God

Although the scripture does not explicitly mention Saul feeling inadequate, it does suggest that he lacked confidence at first and was reluctant to assume his role as king. The feeling of being overwhelmed is common when faced with new opportunities and challenges. A lack of confidence or a lack of skill set, or character can paralyze you. Everything you need is on the inside of you. It just needs to be developed. When we feel inadequate, we should not focus on our weaknesses but instead focus on what the Word of God says about us, identify our strengths, and work towards allowing the Spirit of God to develop you from the inside out.

When Samuel anointed Saul as king, he gave him specific signs to confirm his appointment. This was a way of preparing Saul for the challenges and responsibilities that came with being a king. Likewise, we must also be prepared for the calling that God has for us. This may require us to develop our skills, education, or character to be better equipped to fulfill our purpose, once we receive divine instructions on what we need to do with what God has already placed on the inside of us. Let’s think about Saul. He thought he was not prepared but when he was anointed by Samuel he realized he had everything he needed on the inside of him. We must also be open to learning and growing through the experiences that God allows in our lives. Furthermore, our calling may not always match what we expect. Saul was not seeking to be king, but God chose him for this role. Similarly, our calling may not always align with our plans and desires. We must be open to the direction that God is leading us in and be willing to embrace His plan for our lives.

In situations where we feel inadequate or are unsure about our skills, capacity, character, or abilities, we can follow these steps:

1. Acknowledge how you feel and confront your feelings: It’s important to be honest with ourselves and acknowledge how we’re feeling. Sometimes just admitting our fears and doubts can help us move past them. Also, it is important to trust that God will heal you in the areas that cause you to be fearful. For example, God does not want us to be fearful or anxious. So, meditating and gaining wisdom from God on the following scriptures can be a guiding light for you to confront the feelings of fear, worry, doubt and anxiety.

• I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

• For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7

• Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

• Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

• Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13

2. Assess your strengths and weaknesses: We can take an honest assessment of our strengths and weaknesses to identify areas where we need to grow and areas where we already excel. This can help us focus on developing the enhancing or even strengthening our skills. Even in the assessing of your strength and weaknesses, trust God and his direction. He must and will be the reason for your success.

3. Seek feedback and guidance: Be encouraged to seek feedback from your pastor, mentor, or trusted colleagues to get an external perspective on your skills. They can help to provide you with transparent and honest feedback. They can also provide you with some practical recommendations and strategies for improvement.

4. Take action to develop skills: Faith without works is dead. So, it is very important that you take the necessary steps to develop the skills and abilities you need to succeed as a leader, entrepreneur, and minister. This may involve taking courses, seeking out new experiences, or practicing skills in a safe environment.

5. Build confidence through small wins: Success and prosperity does not happen overnight. It is a process that is not given to the swift. It is not a sprint but a marathon. We can build confidence by setting small goals and achieving them. This can help us see that we’re capable of making progress and can give us the momentum we need to take on bigger challenges.

6. Practice positive self-talk: Proverbs 18:21, states, the tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. This scripture underscores the immense influence our words have on our lives and the lives of those around us. The words we speak can either build up or tear down, inspire or discourage, motivate or demotivate. They can have a profound impact on our own well-being, shaping our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. Negative words can create a toxic environment that breeds selfdoubt, insecurity, and anxiety, while positive words can create an uplifting and encouraging atmosphere that fosters confidence, hope, and inspiration. The words we speak to ourselves and to others can shape our reality and impact our mental, emotional, and physical health. It’s important to recognize the power of our words and to choose them wisely. By speaking words of love, encouragement, and affirmation, we can empower ourselves and those around us to be the best versions of themselves. Conversely, by speaking words of hate, criticism, and negativity, we can perpetuate a cycle of destruction and undermine our own potential for growth and success. Ultimately, the power of the tongue lies in our ability to use it to create a positive and life-affirming environment. By choosing our words carefully and speaking with intention, we can shape a reality that reflects our highest aspirations and most cherished values.

#3 HE’S INSECURE ABOUT HIS PAST.

We know that having insecurities about your past can hold you back. The Bible tells us that when Samuel tells Saul he’s going to be King, Saul starts making excuses on why he can’t be king. The prophet has told you that you have been chosen by God to be king. What more do you need? Saul says he can’t be king for 3 reasons (1) He’s from the Tribe of Benjamin, which is the smallest of the 12 Tribes of Israel. We know that kings come from the Tribe of Judah (2) He says he’s from the clan of Matri, which is the smallest clan within the tribe of Benjamin and (3) He says he’s from the House of Kish, which is the poorest house of Matri. Saul is saying: He has Benjamin in his background. Matri in his DNA, and Kish on his Resume’.

Saul believes he cannot be king because his background reveals where he came from. Since Saul’s past was so messed up, he probably thought no one would respect him as a king. I’ll put it this way: Somebody right now is not taking advantage of God’s opportunities because:·

• They are too old or too young.

• They don’t have enough education.

• Grew up in certain section or side of town.

• Got a divorce.

• Got fired from a job.

• Have a prison record.

• Raised by a single parent.

• Have filed bankruptcy.

• Dropped out of school/college.

Here’s some good news from God: The very thing you believe disqualifies you is precisely what the Lord deems makes you the perfect person for the job. The Bible is filled with stories of flawed individuals whom God used in remarkable ways, despite their past mistakes and imperfections. For example, Moses was a murderer and Rahab was a prostitute. Yet God still used them to accomplish his purposes. Here are some witnesses to this fact:

• Noah: He got drunk and was naked, but God still used him.

• David: He committed murder and adultery, but God said he’s a man after my own heart. David was the greatest king of Israel outside of Jesus.

• Peter: Overreactive hot head. Peter cussed, cut someone’s ear off, and fell asleep on the Mountain of Transfiguration. But God used him at Pentecost and about 3000 people were saved.

• Paul: He killed Christians, he was there when they stoned Stephen to death, first Martyr. Paul was too young to participate in the stoning of Stephen, but held the coats of those who did participate. But God used Paul to Pen to us 2/3 of the New Testament.

Let Go Of The Insecurities From Your Past

Saul’s insecurity about his past highlights a common struggle that many people face - the fear that their past mistakes, shortcomings, or perceived failures will hold them back from achieving their goals and living up to their potential. This fear can be paralyzing and lead to self-doubt and negative self-talk, making it difficult to move forward and pursue new opportunities. However, it is worthwhile to remember that our past does not define us, and that we are capable of growth, change, and redemption.

When we feel insecure about our past, we can turn to God for comfort and strength. He is a God of second chances and forgiveness, and he can use even our most painful experiences for our benefit and his glory. It is also imperative to surround ourselves with supportive and encouraging people who believe in us and our potential. In addition, it is important to focus on our strengths and the positive things we have accomplished. By doing so, we can overcome our insecurities and step into the future with confidence and faith.

When our past mistakes make us feel insecure and we worry that they may disqualify us from opportunities or positions, we should remember that God uses imperfect people for His purposes. We should focus on where we are headed rather than where we came from. We can use our past as a testimony to what God has brought us through and use it to inspire others. It’s essential to remember that God does not call the qualified; he qualifies the called. If God has called us to something, then he will equip us with the necessary skills, capacity, character, and ability to fulfill that calling. We need to trust in his plan and know that he will make a way for us to succeed. We can also seek mentorship and guidance from people who have been through similar experiences and can offer wisdom and support. Ultimately, we need to have faith and confidence in ourselves, knowing that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and have gifts and talents that can contribute to building God’s kingdom.

The story of Saul in 1 Samuel 10:17-24 teaches us about the potential pitfalls of letting our fears and insecurities hold us back from the greatness that God has called us to. It also teaches us profound lessons about stepping into the destiny and greatness that God has for us. Saul was intimidated by the possibility of becoming king and felt inadequate for the position. He also struggled with insecurity about his past and background, which made him doubt whether he could truly be a successful leader. These are common struggles that many people face when trying to step into their purpose and fulfill their destiny. However, as we see in the examples of Noah, David, Peter, and Paul, God uses imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will. Our past mistakes or perceived inadequacies do not disqualify us from being used by God.

When we embrace our diving purpose, it requires a will ingness to trust and obey God. Despite our past mistakes, fear of what we may think about ourselves, or even what others may believe or perceive, let us not be hesitant and unwilling to accept the role God has for our life. We must also be willing to surrender our own plans and desires to follow God’s will. Our divine purpose is not just for ourselves but also for the benefit of those around us. We are called to serve and make a positive impact in the lives of others. Finally, we must remember that our divine calling is not based on our own abilities or qualifications. It is based on God’s grace and mercy. We may feel inadequate or unworthy of the calling that God has placed on our lives. However, we must trust that God will equip us with everything we need to fulfill our purpose. Just as Saul was chosen by God, we too are chosen by God for a specific purpose.

When God has called you to a great place, don’t allow the experiences of others to set limitations on you.

• Just because they couldn’t doesn’t mean you can’t.

• Just because they didn’t doesn’t mean you won’t.

• Just because they failed doesn’t mean you won’t succeed.

Therefore, it is important to trust in God’s plan for our lives and to not limit ourselves based on what we have seen others do or what our past looks like. We must have faith that God will equip us with everything we need to fulfill His purpose for our lives and walk in the greatness that He has called us to.

Conclusion

A few of the lessons Saul learned in his life before he became king are among his most valuable. The importance of keeping God first must not be overshadowed by positions or titles. Saul, the first king of Israel, had nothing and worked on his father’s land until he was called to lead the people in battle. Despite Saul’s initial success as a leader and warrior, he later fell out of favor with God due to disobedience and a lack of faith, resulting in his rejection by God. Throughout Saul’s story, we are reminded of the dangers of pride and self-reliance, and that true greatness comes from God’s grace. It’s essential to always keep God first as you move forward in your purpose and destiny. Our success in life depends on His anointing, power, grace, and mercy.

Self-care is not selfish; it’s a deep-rooted expression of self-love. By nurturing our well-being and rejuvenating our spirit, we’re better equipped to radiate positivity to the world. It’s the essential act of filling our soul and infusing joy into our journey.

Conversations on Sisterhood: A Chat with Dr. Christine

It’s been a joy-filled journey, crafting stories for LEGACY eMagazine, serving as a beacon of hope, inspiration, and power for women everywhere. With the dawn of 2024, we’re broadening our horizon, bringing insights for both men and women, further elevating our purpose. And, for the final countdown of my 2023 articles, let’s put a spotlight on the theme “Wear Your Crown—Your Circle” with the dynamic Dr. Christine C. Thomas!

1. Dive into Sisterhood for Us! Sisterhood, to me, is like a cozy circle of friends around a campfire, sharing stories, dreams, and marshmallows. It’s that bond among women who vibe on the same frequency. I’ve got my tribe spanning associations, sororities, and communities. It’s the kind of bond that starts with a coffee chat and can end in a lifetime of laughter and love.

2. The ‘Boogeyman’ in the Sisterhood Closet? Imagine a room filled with beautiful, colorful balloons, and then there’s this one balloon being held down by a tiny pebble. That pebble? It’s FEAR! From worrying about past scars to the anxiety of change, fear can pop our sisterhood balloon. But here’s a secret: once we kick fear out, we unlock a universe of possibilities!

3. Building the Best ‘Sis-Team’? Any Tips? Imagine setting up a brunch table, with empty chairs waiting to be filled. Who would you invite? People who not only understand your humor, but those who can make you erupt into spontaneous laughter. People who, without hesitation, would challenge your ideas but also stand by you during your toughest moments. Those who celebrate your successes and help you navigate through failures. That’s the essence of a great sister circle. When forming this circle, don’t box yourself into finding individuals who fit a particular mold. Instead, diversify. Think of a vibrant mosaic where each piece contributes to a stunning bigger picture. Each friend, like a piece of that mosaic, brings in their unique stories, lessons, and perspectives. Embrace variety, not just in age, but in culture, faith, and experiences. Such diversity only enriches the bond, promoting growth, understanding, and unity. In the end, it’s about forming a supportive network that brings out the best in each of you, challenging and cheering one another on, through thick and thin.

4. Fostering Friendships Amidst Chaos? In a world swirling with constant unpredictability, the importance of cultivating grounding relationships cannot be overstated. Imagine the richness that friends from diverse backgrounds bring – offering a colorful palette of experiences and viewpoints that deeply enrich our lives. Authenticity sits at the core of these bonds; being true to oneself forms genuine connections while preventing the drain of pretense. Mutual respect is paramount, and by establishing clear boundaries, we ensure that the relationship flourishes harmoniously. It’s crucial to not just tolerate, but truly celebrate the differences each individual offers, understanding that these unique attributes strengthen the bond. Additionally, recognizing the transient nature of some friendships is essential. Not all are meant to last a lifetime; some people enter our lives for specific reasons or seasons, and once their purpose is fulfilled, it’s alright to cherish the memories and move forward. In this chaotic whirlwind of life, these principles can guide us in nurturing those meaningful connections that enhance our journey.

5. The Power Play: How to Shine without Casting Shadows? In our life journey, it’s not uncommon to occasionally feel the tendrils of jealousy or intimidation. These emotions can be spurred by witnessing someone else’s achievements, or perhaps from the fear of not measuring up in comparison. However, in these moments, it’s crucial to remember an important tenet: our shine is unique to us, and it’s not a finite resource. Think of it this way – when you’re in a room full of lit candles, adding one more doesn’t take away from the glow of the others. Instead, it magnifies the overall brilliance. Similarly, embracing our individual strengths, talents, and achievements doesn’t diminish others; it adds to the collective brilliance. In the quest to shine, it’s essential to cultivate an inner mindset akin to a soulful spa day. This means nourishing our inner selves, taking time for introspection, and understanding our value. When we’re at peace with our accomplishments and are secure in our worth, we naturally exude confidence without casting shadows over others. Blossoming is a beautiful process that everyone is entitled to. By grounding ourselves in empathy, understanding, and love, we can ensure that our growth doesn’t unintentionally overshadow or diminish others. In fact, with the right mindset, our shine can serve as an inspiration, prompting others to seek their own unique light because each one of us has a distinct thread of brilliance, and by weaving together, we create a luminous picture of collective achievement.

6. Lifting Sisters without Weighing Yourself Down? Imagine a garden where every flower supports the growth of its neighbor, ensuring that each bloom reaches its fullest potential under the sun. This is the essence of true sisterhood among women! Embrace your own unique brilliance, delve deep into self-awareness, and always be there, ready to extend a hand, ensuring that as one rises, all rise. Just as in nature, there’s room for every flower to flourish; in our lives, there’s space for every woman to shine.

7. How Can Women Elevate Each Other in Leadership? I’ve had the incredible privilege to engage in numerous opportunities across the United States, sharpening my leadership skills and broadening my perspective. Notably, my involvement in the “Women in Leadership” program at Harvard University was transformative. I further amplified my voice by addressing an international assembly of women about the importance of having a “Dynamic Duo” to bolster one’s leadership journey. Mentoring fellow women has been a consistent passion of mine, and I channel this drive into writing. My book Courageous Lady, it helps shatter the chains of fear, propelling women to new heights. Together, as we share our journeys and insights, we pave a luminous path towards a more empowered future for all women.

8. What’s Your Success Mantra? Can Women

Truly Have it All? In my early days, I focused solely on achieving big goals, often missing the smaller yet significant moments. Now, I understand that success is about appreciating both the small steps and the big milestones. Every experience, good or bad, contributes to our growth. For all women wondering about their path, remember that every challenge faced and every goal achieved pushes us to grow further. Success isn’t just about the big moments; it’s about every decision, effort, and moment of growth along the way.

9. Leave us with a Gold Nugget from Your Wisdom Mine. Life’s like a relay race; my two daughters and I have been passed on batons of values, wisdom, and strength from a tribe of remarkable women. Now, it’s our turn to pass it on. So, to every woman reading this, know that you’re not just running your own race; you’re part of an enduring relay that spans generations. Own the magic that has been passed on to you. Stand with confidence, wear your courage proudly, and always remember that you have a plethora of stories, dreams, and strengths from countless remarkable women. You are bold, you are beautiful, and your brilliance shines from within. Celebrate yourself, for you are truly extraordinary. Here’s to the journey, the legacy, and most importantly, here’s to you!

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