Morning Reflection – Monday, June 16, 2025 Mount Prospect, Illinois – Morning Walk

Morning Reflection – Monday, June 16, 2025

Mount Prospect, Illinois – Morning Walk

This morning’s walk was about more than movement—it was about alignment. A quiet return to the center. A reminder that my worth isn’t tied to performance, productivity, or outcomes. It’s rooted in identity. In being.

Today is qualifying day. The lanes will bring their own challenges, but before any scores are posted or games begin, I return to this: whatever happens today is meant for growth. Whether it feels good or hard, it’s all an opportunity to learn, adapt, and strengthen what matters most.

What matters? The things I can actually control—my effort, my attitude, my intention. Everything outside of that? I let it go. I release it. If others bring their doubts, their projections, their judgments—that’s theirs to carry. I carry peace.

Today I walk in truth. Not perfection. Just full, present effort in the little things—walking, writing, stretching, showing up. Because how we do the small things is how we shape everything.

As my body wakes up and my pace quickens, I feel the energy return—fingers warming, steps grounding, thoughts getting clearer. Soon I’ll shift into reading, journaling, and then into service: helping Bella and Lindsay get ready, loading the car, carrying their gear, supporting them as they compete. I hope they show up fully. I hope they enjoy the moment. I hope they remember why they love the game.

This morning is less about control and more about clarity. It’s about remembering that time and direction are the two most valuable things I have. Each morning is like holding an hourglass and a compass: one reminds me time is precious; the other reminds me where I’m heading, and why.

So I move forward gently. Sincerely. Letting my actions reflect what I believe, without having to speak it out loud.

And as I finish this walk, I remind myself:

I’m set apart. I’m built differently. I carry something rare.

It’s not my weakness that’s been holding me back—it’s the strength I’m still learning to accept.

And the more I walk in it, the more I invite others to do the same.