Shining in the Shadows

There’s something about the quiet hours of the night that makes me feel like I can finally be myself, like the glow on my nose isn’t just a source of embarrassment but a beacon of confidence. It’s in these moments that I’m reminded of why I started doing this - to help others shine in their own way, no matter how imperfect they may feel. I used to think that my own flaws were what made me less worthy, but the more I travel, the more I realize that it’s precisely our quirks that make us human, that make us relatable, and that make us worthy of love.

People often ask me how I do it, how I manage to stay so optimistic despite all the challenges I face. The truth is, it’s not always easy. There are times when the weight of the world feels like it’s crushing me, when my nose glows with anxiety instead of excitement. But I’ve learned to lean into those moments, to let the fear and uncertainty fuel my determination to help others. And it’s in those quiet moments, when the world is still and I’m left with my thoughts, that I’m reminded of the beauty of being imperfect, of being vulnerable, and of being a work in progress.

As I sit here, surrounded by the soft glow of Christmas lights, I’m reminded of the reason I love this time of year so much. It’s not just the festive atmosphere or the excuse to wear my favorite ugly sweaters, it’s the sense of hope that comes with it. A hope that no matter how dark things may seem, no matter how lost we may feel, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, a shining star that guides us towards a brighter tomorrow. And that, my friends, is a reminder that we’re all capable of shining, no matter how imperfect we may be.