"The spiritual warrior hides from nothing. We jump into the fire. We dive into the ocean. We become the sea." - Charlotte Sophia Kasl.

As I close out 2024, I want to discuss the warrior spirit. Paraphrasing a Google search definition, this spirit embodies an individual who uses their talents and abilities for the betterment of a community, family, or group. They are willing to fight for their beliefs while remaining kind and loving.

Looking back at the last quarter of this year, shining examples of the warrior spirit emerged in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton and other natural disasters such as tornadoes and wildfires. As the divided nation that we have become - neighbors, friends, and strangers- we set aside differences to help our fellow humans in their time of need. First responders, healthcare workers, faith-based organizations, customer service industries, and utility workers dug in deep during the long hours and days that followed any incident to do what they do best during the rescue and recovery efforts.

Let's not forget those whose tenacious spirit and resolve gave them the strength to search for and often rescue their loved ones and neighbors they lost contact with. They risked their own lives during the initial hours of the event before the arrival of rescue workers—the penultimate spirit warrior. Remember that it does not have to take a disaster to test your mettle. Most of the time, our daily lives challenge us the most. Often, we feel like throwing in the towel when the times get tough. We find it difficult to move forward in the face of adversity.

Think of the following quote from the Wisdom Warrior as a contract you can make with yourself that will help you call on your fighting spirit. Write this contract down and post it somewhere visible in your house as a reminder that you have inner resolve (as they say in the military) to drive on.

I CHOOSE

To live by choice, not by chance.

To be motivated, not manipulated.

To be useful, not used.

To make changes, not excuses.

To excel, not compete. 

I choose self-esteem, not self-pity.

I choose to listen to my inner voice, not to the random

opinions of others. 

I choose to do the things that you won't so I can continue

to do the things you can't.

Look in the mirror and say these words out loud to reinforce this binding contract with yourself. Remember that we can always find unity in Namaste regardless of differing opinions. Until next year -

Namaste,

Tim