A Quiet Pause, A New Chapter

Have you ever felt like you were being swept along life’s river at a fast pace, trying to resist the current? Have you ever felt the tide dragging you down? In those alarming moments, what were your thoughts? How were you going to escape the current and avoid drowning? Life, like a river, can overwhelm you and sometimes make you feel like you are being pulled in directions you don’t want to go. It can even make you feel like you are about to drown. When that’s happening, simply take a deep breath (don’t hold your breath, that’s different) and float. When you are in a relaxed position, you are more likely to go with the flow instead of fighting a current that is taking you in another direction.

The art of being uniquely you takes time and starts with knowing exactly who you are. Who are you at your core? What makes your heart sing? What sets your soul on fire? Discovering your unique identity is a complex and rewarding process that requires deep soul searching. Take the time to explore what brings you joy and contentment, what inspires you, and what drives you forward. Consider the experiences that have shaped you, the people who have influenced you, and the goals that you aspire to achieve. By delving into your true self, you can unlock your full potential and live a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and meaningful.

We’ve all heard the phrase “hurry up and wait.” It’s one of those sayings that feels both humorous and painfully true. You’re told to rush — to get ready, to move, to respond — only to find yourself waiting once you’ve done your part. Waiting for others. Waiting for answers. Waiting for life to catch up with the effort you’ve already given.

It happens everywhere — in careers, relationships, creative pursuits, and personal growth. We hustle to be prepared, to show up, to be ready for what’s next. And then… silence. Stillness. A pause we didn’t plan for.

At first, it can feel unfair. We did the work, we followed the steps, we met the deadline — so why are we sitting here in the in-between? But maybe “hurry up and wait” isn’t punishment. Maybe it’s a reminder.

Life moves in cycles — of doing, and of becoming. The “hurry up” seasons stretch us to act, to rise, to prepare. But the “wait” seasons ask something deeper of us: patience, faith, trust. They remind us that no matter how fast we move, timing is something we can’t control.

Waiting can feel empty, but it’s often where the unseen work happens — the healing, the maturing, the aligning. What looks like stillness on the surface is often the quiet preparation for what’s next.

So the next time you find yourself in that space — having done all you can, sitting in uncertainty, feeling the tension between readiness and rest — remember: not every pause is a setback. Sometimes it’s just life whispering, “You’re right on time.”

Ride the waves of uncertainty and change. The only thing certain in life is that there will be changes. Changes in something as simple as the weather and as drastic as divorce, death, or job loss. If we can learn to “ride the waves” during those uncertain times, we can grow from those moments when the tides rise over our heads. Use the moments when the low tides come in to catch your breath. Take each wave as it comes to you and go with it. Don’t let it engulf you or push you to the floor of the ocean. Rise above your circumstances and ride the waves!

Have you heard the famous quote by Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”? Or what about the popular Michael Jackson song, Man in the Mirror? …”I’m starting with the man in the mirror… I’m asking him to change his ways”. The best way to see change in the world is to start with you! It is easy for us to complain about how things are going, or how businesses are run or about other people. It is much more difficult for us to make changes, especially when it comes to changing our attitude or our perspective. It is okay to have an opinion about things, but complaining will get you no where. I encourage you today, if you are feeling like complaining, stop and think… Is this productive? Will this change a single thing if I complain? The chances are it will not. Let’s be more productive and start making changes within ourselves first!

It is time to elevate your voice! Speak up for yourself! Be heard when you have something to say! The 14 women in this book I am recommending have been through many of life’s challenges, and not only lived to tell about it, but also healed from it! These courageous stories were written to Inspire Strength, Perseverance, and Hope. When you are ready to find your voice, check out this book by clicking the link below! https://amzn.to/44qfGT0