Stop cursing the darkness

I am a 40-year-old American male born and raised in Washington, DC. I have been stranded within the 'belly of leviathan' (prison) for the past 24 years. However, this is not about the bad and/or the problems of the justice system, but, hopefully, the start of a new way of thinking. All too often we curse the obstacles in our life, not fully understanding that they are there for a reason, and we should therefore brace ourselves because something great is about to happen.

We must remember that not all obstacles are bad and mean we need to turn back, but we do need to slow down enough to determine the appropriate actions for our future. Obstacles are appropriately placed caution signals for us to keep our heads up and eyes open.

BLESSING IN DISGUISE

Being in prison is hard and oftentimes seems unfair. We tend to only focus, in the moment, of what is in front of us, but we fail to see the many blessings. It may have spared us from a disaster that could have cost us our lives.

Finally, an obstacle may signal that we have arrived prematurely to a point in our life, not fully armed with what we will require to successfully continue with our journey. It is said that nothing bad comes from Heaven, and if something seems to appear in a negative form before you, it is a blessing yet to unfold.

If we can gear our minds to seek the good in every situation, life and the Word become enveloped in richness and depth. Only then you see your obstacles for what they are.

What price do you put on your experiences over the years? To what do you attribute your discipline, courage and strength? It is our duty to stop and read the signs, and own the blessings contained within, for they are given to us as a gift. Whether you are in prison or free, remember to make your time and energy serve you, for life is truly what we desire it to be.

Jah bless.

- R.Y.