Forging Ahead

It's been a while since I've shared anything in this space, and recently, within the past weeks, I have been convicted to write more. It's not just a simple conviction; writing is where I learn to submit, surrender, and share. 

I'm not alone when I say the external factors that comprise our lives have seemed chaotic on a daily basis for the past months. There's political upheaval, which shows up in new policies daily, mass firings, natural disasters, plane crashes, need I go on? And yet, in the midst of this, we must live.

I have become even more intentional in cultivating a deeper relationship with the God of the universe by praying and meditation. For me, this looks like a daily quiet time, sometimes journaling and repeating spiritual mantras throughout the day. These practices provide perspective and shift my focus from the external problems to Someone I know is in control. I am cultivating a sense of peace amidst the chaos.

Now, I'm not perfect, so sometimes I binge-watch shows that aren't good for my spirit. I recently did that and was looking for something to cleanse my spirit, and I stumbled on The Forge on Netflix. While this movie is cliche, there are some deep spiritual principles that I found beneficial. This movie, in essence, is about discipleship, mentorship, and fellowship from an African American male perspective. Because this is not often seen on the screen, it was refreshing to watch. 

We tend to complicate life because we think we know it all. And if we don't, we think we can figure it out eventually. But there's beauty in community that many of us are lacking; that beauty is elevated when there is an unspoken understanding between each of us. A lot of the Anonymous groups have the principle of connecting each member with a sponsor. A sponsor is someone who has been down the road longer and who can help you navigate when the going gets tough while providing accountability. In jest, I have said we should all have a sponsor. Discipleship and mentorship within community can be the start of that.

So I've been forging ahead, trying to connect with others to the point of mentorship and discipleship within community. If this is what you desire also, don't give up in this pursuit. Keep praying, meditating, seeking, and reaching out. That's my plan.

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17 NIV

How are you forging ahead?

--Nylse

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