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<p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">WHO AM I? SACRED OR SECULAR?</p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The innate desire for meaning and purpose is central to every human experience. Humans have a deep-seated desire to be part of something bigger than themselves, which can give their lives purpose and meaning. A life devoid of meaning and purpose can be unfulfilling, joyless, and pointless to the person living it. Recognizing and honoring the role played by the sacred in the formation of human identity is particularly important in today's secular world. Living in a secular world can present challenges when finding meaning and purpose, as individuals may struggle to find direction and fulfillment. A feeling of emptiness and disconnection can set in when an unhealthy emphasis is placed on material success and individualism. Loss of appreciation for life's more profound aspects and estrangement from oneself and others may result when the sacred is pushed to the periphery or considered irrelevant. Nevertheless, there is still a chance that the power of the sacred can be rediscovered in everyday life.</p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">As I was leaving elementary school for higher school, my mother always advised me to remember the son of who I am. I did not value the counsel so much then, but it became a focal issue of my life and conduct as time passed. At that time, my identity was wrapped in my pedigree. For several years, I was primarily defined by that. However, as time went by, a time came in my life when I was seeking to define myself. It was an attempt to show that I am more than my last name. I wanted to identify with my peers. There was a hunger for more than my pedigree could offer. Of course, I didn’t understand the hunger and thirst at the core of every person. Having received much love (that comes with its attendant discipline) from my parents, I wanted more by associating with my peers. Of course, I thought they had more to offer, and consequently, I became more like a chameleon.&nbsp; </p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Chameleons are colorful lizards of the iguana suborder that can change skin color. They change skin colors in response to changes in light or temperature. In addition to changing skin color, chameleons can move their eyes independently of each other and look in two different directions at the same time. These descriptions aptly describe me as I was growing up. A few teachers and the principal found it strange to see my name on the list of noisemakers in the class. No one would ever think I could be part of such a group. There were many other things that I was involved with that my parents would never believe. I remember an evening when my mom called me and my immediate younger brother to the dining table for a discovery moment. She innocently asked if I drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes as well. I answered in the affirmative. She almost collapsed on her chair and wore an expression of deep disappointment. My younger brother was not involved in any such things but had an aggressive demeanor. My mom disbelieved that my brother was not involved in such. I had to confirm that he was not. Of course, these things were not my identity as a human being but expressed my nature. </p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Ever since Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s instruction in the Garden of Eden, there has been human nature that could not be tamed or instructed to do good. The heart core of the human species that was in a relationship with God became void. Since nature abhors a vacuum, that core began seeking other things to fill the void. It is instructive to know that such nature cannot please God as it is self-seeking. Such a life caters to appetites and impulses outside of God. There is a God-void seeking for connection. That is where every quest for meaning begins. Every quest that fails to direct any human being to this point of departure of the human race cannot offer any opportunity to create space for infinite possibilities or flourish. The quest for meaning must start at this point of departure. Usually, the divine is left out of our quest for meaning. David Benner rightly puts it this way: </p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><em>“We do not find our true self by seeking it. Rather, we find it by seeking God.”</em></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">At the core of every person is that void. We are secular if it is empty of the divine presence, power, and influence. We are so conversant about sacred and secular work. However, sacred or secular is not first about what we do but who we are. The question to explore here is, am I sacred or secular? The fact that someone is on the pulpit, a church attendee, or serving as a missionary is not the issue. The real issue is who is at the core of our being. Cultivating a sense of meaning and purpose requires intentional effort. It entails considering our values and priorities and ensuring that our actions align with the truly important things to us. The sacred can serve as a compass or map to direct one through this process. Finding out what truly gives our lives meaning requires exploring our values. This might involve engaging in spiritual practices, seeking meaningful relationships, or pursuing activities that empower others. We can cultivate a more profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction by considering our reasons for being here and selecting our actions with purpose.</p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">An excerpt from The Quest for Meaning: Creating the Space for Infinite Possibilities.</p><p style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br></p>

SACRED OR SECULAR: WHO AM I?

<h2>The Power of Forgiveness</h2><p>Choosing to forgive is a decisive step towards achieving reconciliation, finding inner peace, and experiencing personal growth. It requires a conscious decision to release feelings of resentment, anger, and thoughts of revenge. Forgiveness means taking the path toward healing and moving forward without holding onto the pain.</p><figure id="figure-i74fnp2rellm35c2jo"><img id="i74fnp2rellm35c2jo" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1625055887171-4a3186a42b39?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8Rm9yZ2l2ZW5lc3MlMjBwZWFjZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM3MjcwMTd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="Forgiveness peace" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1625055887171-4a3186a42b39?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8Rm9yZ2l2ZW5lc3MlMjBwZWFjZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM3MjcwMTd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Why is Forgiveness Important?</h2><p>Holding onto negative emotions like resentment and anger can result in stress and health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. However, forgiveness can improve your mental health and relationships, reduce stress, and increase your effective functioning. Forgiveness is not just about making the other person feel better, but it also aids in your healing process. Ultimately, forgiveness leads to a better life.</p><h2>Steps Towards Forgiveness</h2><p>Forgiveness is a choice that requires a genuine desire to heal. Here are some steps to help you on your journey towards forgiveness:</p><ol><li><strong>Acceptance:</strong> Acknowledge the reality of what happened and how it made you feel.</li><li><strong>Expression:</strong> Find a healthy outlet to express your feelings, such as in a group or individual coaching session.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Understanding:</strong> Try to understand why the person did what they did. This doesn't mean you must agree with their actions; understanding can foster empathy.</li><li><strong>Decision:</strong> Make the conscious decision to forgive. Remember, forgiveness is for you, not the person who hurts you.</li></ol><figure id="figure-b7snykvdmmlm35cdqc"><img id="b7snykvdmmlm35cdqc" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1619127281424-d57e64d7c4d7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxTdGVwcyUyMGZvcmdpdmVuZXNzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MzcyNzAzMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="Steps forgiveness" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1619127281424-d57e64d7c4d7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxTdGVwcyUyMGZvcmdpdmVuZXNzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MzcyNzAzMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>The Role of Reconciliation</h2><p>When it comes to forgiveness, it's a journey that one must take on their own. However, reconciliation involves both parties and may only sometimes be achievable or preferable. To restore a relationship to a positive state, mutual respect, understanding, and a genuine apology from the person who caused the harm are needed. It's crucial to remember that forgiveness doesn't always result in reconciliation.&nbsp;</p><h2>Reconciliation: A Two-Way Street</h2><p>Reconciliation is a two-way street that requires both parties to be committed to the process. It involves open communication, honesty, and a willingness to address and resolve past hurts. If both parties are not ready or willing to reconcile, it may be best to focus on personal healing and forgiveness.</p><figure id="figure-1qf9rf2f3lm35ck6o"><img id="1qf9rf2f3lm35ck6o" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589816502524-b65852353095?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxSZWNvbmNpbGlhdGlvbiUyMHByb2Nlc3N8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzNzI3MDM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="Reconciliation process" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1589816502524-b65852353095?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxSZWNvbmNpbGlhdGlvbiUyMHByb2Nlc3N8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzNzI3MDM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Final Thoughts</h2><p>Forgiveness and reconciliation are potent tools for healing and personal growth. They can help you overcome past hurts, improve relationships, and lead to happier, healthier lives. However, forgiveness is a personal journey for your well-being, while reconciliation is a mutual process that may not always be possible or desirable. <strong>Be patient with yourself; remember, seeking help if needed is okay.</strong></p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p><br></p>

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

<p>Coaching helps individuals to unlock their full potential. Whether you're looking to improve your career, relationships, or personal growth, coaching can provide the guidance and support you need to be fulfilled.</p><h2>What is Coaching?</h2><p>Coaching is a process that involves working with a trained professional to identify and achieve your goals. A coach motivates, inspires, and guides a willing client to gain clarity on values, strengths, and weaknesses and develop strategies to overcome obstacles and be fulfilled.</p><h3>Benefits of Coaching</h3><p>Coaching can provide numerous benefits, including:</p><ul><li>Increased self-awareness</li><li>Improved communication skills</li><li>Enhanced problem-solving abilities</li><li>Greater confidence&nbsp;</li><li>Improved relationships</li><li>Increased motivation and productivity</li></ul><p>Coaching can also help you identify and overcome limiting beliefs and behaviors hindering your fulfillment.</p><h2>Types of Coaching</h2><p>There are many types of coaching available, including:</p><ul><li>Career Coaching</li><li>Executive Coaching</li><li>Life Coaching</li><li>Relationship Coaching</li><li>Health and Wellness Coaching</li></ul><p>Each type of coaching is tailored to specific goals and needs. For example, career coaching can help you identify your strengths and find a job that aligns with your values. In contrast, relationship coaching can help you improve communication and strengthen your bond with your partner.</p><h3>Working with a Coach</h3><p>When working with a coach, find someone who fits your needs and personality well. A coach should be trained and experienced in your area of focus and can provide the support and guidance you need to achieve your goals.</p><p>During coaching sessions, you will work with your coach to identify and develop a plan to achieve your goals. Your coach will provide feedback, support, and accountability to help you stay on track and progress towards your goals.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Coaching is a powerful tool to help you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals. Coaching can provide the guidance and support you need to succeed, whether you want to improve your career, relationships, or personal growth.</p><p>If you want to work with us, <a href="https://payhip.com/b/cKJgj" data-mce-href="https://payhip.com/b/cKJgj" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">SCHEDULE YOUR DISCOVERY SESSION HERE</a>﻿. With the STRAITGATE coach by your side, you can create space for infinite possibilities and fill it up.</p><figure id="figure-srtl406776lld7rd7y"><img id="srtl406776lld7rd7y" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1499209974431-9dddcece7f88?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8Y29hY2hpbmclMjBzdWNjZXNzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MjE1ODk2OXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="coaching success" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1499209974431-9dddcece7f88?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8Y29hY2hpbmclMjBzdWNjZXNzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MjE1ODk2OXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>

Unlocking Your Full Potential: The Power of Coaching

<p>The human race is plagued with a virus. This virus is not something new, nor is it something that can be eradicated with a vaccine. It is pervasive and older than you. It is universal because it is everywhere. </p><h3><strong>The Invisible Enemy</strong></h3><p>The virus I'm talking about isn't physical like the flu or COVID-19. It is a mental and emotional virus that affects people's minds and makes it harder for them to reach their full potential. It is the virus of pessimism and being down on things.&nbsp;</p><p>Negativity and pessimism can spread from one person to another just like a virus does. It can spread through a whole town or even a whole country. It is a dangerous virus that can cause depression, anxiety, and even death.</p><h3><strong>The Root of the Problem</strong></h3><p>The root cause of this pandemic is fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of rejection, and fear of death. These fears can paralyze us and prevent us from living our lives to the fullest. They can make us see the world through a negative lens and prevent us from seeing the good in people and situations.</p><p>How come we are so fearful, though? We have been socialized to think and act in this way. We learn to be wary and risk-averse from a young age. We are taught to conform to society's expectations and to avoid standing out. We are taught to fear failure and to strive for perfection.</p><h3>&nbsp;<strong>The Antidote</strong></h3><p>So, how do we overcome this virus? The antidote is simple, but it requires effort and commitment to maximize our potential, create space for infinite possibilities, and turn the ordinary into extraordinary. We must train our minds to focus on the positive and see the good in people and situations. We need to learn to embrace failure and to see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Above everything, we need to practice gratitude and appreciate the blessings in our lives.</p><p>To achieve the above, we need a coach to uplift and encourage us to be our best selves.&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>We have a choice.</strong></h3><p>. We can let this virus consume us or rise above it and live a fulfilling life. The choice is ours. Could you change your conversation for better outcomes? I am here as a coach to walk the path of inspiring a fresh conversation for transformational outcomes. Let us talk. Click the link to &nbsp;<a href="https://payhip.com/b/cKJgj" data-mce-href="https://payhip.com/b/cKJgj">Schedule your DISCOVERY SESSION.﻿</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-l68vsf8eoalld5yoda"><img id="l68vsf8eoalld5yoda" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1433086966358-54859d0ed716?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8dmlydXMlMkYlM0UlMkMlMjAlM0NuYXR1cmUlMkYlM0UlMkMlMjAlM0NpbWFnZSUzQXBvc2l0aXZlLXRoaW5raW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MjE1NTk1MXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="virus/>, <nature/>, <image:positive-thinking" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1433086966358-54859d0ed716?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8dmlydXMlMkYlM0UlMkMlMjAlM0NuYXR1cmUlMkYlM0UlMkMlMjAlM0NpbWFnZSUzQXBvc2l0aXZlLXRoaW5raW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MjE1NTk1MXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>