Two questions: Why do people sometimes go on cruises or trips to locations far from home? Why do some people meditate in silence? Undoubtedly, one of the reasons is to find peace.

How do you find your peace? Is it from reading, writing, driving, talking with a friend, traveling, meditation, music, golf, playing sports, physical fitness, sailing, taking a walk, massages, dinner out, a nap, or reflection?

According to the International Trade Administration (2019), “The U.S. travel and tourism industry generated $1.9 trillion in economic output…” prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. In an article entitled Stats: Travel Industry Second-Fastest Growing Sector in the World (Travel Agent Central, 2019), the Travel and Tourism industry is “the second-fastest growing sector in the world, ahead of healthcare (+3.1%), information technology (+1.7%) and financial services (1.7%), and behind only manufacturing, which was up by 4 percent.” No wonder Southwest Airlines’ catch phrase of “Wanna get away” is so relatable.

There is so much noise around us, from traffic, work, school, home, media and even in our heads. We all need a way to disconnect and recharge. I am one of those who contribute to the travel statistics mentioned. I have had getaways in other countries, states, and cities. I have even done a staycation at cities on the other side of the metroplex in which I live. Interestingly, whether I go far or near I typically return refreshed because I disconnected from the noise and gave my mind a rest. Although I can get rest at home, there is something even more tranquil about getting away.

The bible encourages us to be intentional with our thoughts because they create our reality. The right thoughts vector our destiny and leads to the God of peace being with us. In this way, we can continue to find peace, whether we travel or not.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8)

I do not know about you but guilt and shame for me is like kryptonite. But I have become better at forgiving myself from past mistakes.

In his book The Miracle Morning Hal Elrod mentioned that many people have “the rearview mirror syndrome.” This is where we constantly look in the past to determine if we can successfully take on a new task, habit, or mindset in the present. T Harv Eker in his book Secrets of the Millionaire Mind echoed this concept and said that by constantly looking at the past we would be reactive in the present and not make the best choices for ourselves. I can relate. Guilt and shame could cause you to be consumed by what is in your rearview mirror.

Have you ever done something which you know is not in your best interest, but you did it anyway? It could have been because of fear, pressure, stress, or frustration. It could have been because you were trying to fulfil one of the six human needs as taught by Tony Robbins – Certainty, Uncertainty/Variety, Significance, Connection/Love, Growth or Contribution. Did you feel guilty and ashamed afterwards? Going forward, know that you are not locked into doing anything, according to 1 Corinthians 10:13,

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful, he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can endure it.

But what if you still transgress or make an unwise decision anyway? First, take ownership. Do not blame someone or something. Ask God to forgive you and forgive yourself. Do not let that non-supportive habit continue to be your kryptonite and limit you from functioning in an optimum way.

In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free (Psalm 118:5)

I think it is fascinating that actors and actresses move us to feel emotion with the characters they play. The are most effective the more closely they embody the person they portray.

One of my favorite types of films is one based on a true story. The cast can usher the viewer into another era in history, another culture or part of the world. The more authentic the acting the better we understand the history, lesson, context, and the people.

In the movie of your life, who are you playing? Are you playing your friend, parents, child, supervisor, subordinate, your favorite actor, or actress? Or are you playing yourself? Do you play yourself when you are at home and someone else when you are at work or school? Do you want to be someone else, and you are acting as that person until your habits catch up to your performance? Do you even feel free to exhibit your authentic personality since you feel that it may not be accepted?

I learned that on social media many people are not authentic. They show you only their good side or their good times. What is interesting is that those who show themselves on their not so good days develop a bigger following. This is because the person becomes more relatable and effective when you see their transition from the valley to the mountain top. This indicates that people want and prefer us to be authentic not only on social media but in their presence. They want to see our personality for what it really is.

God made only one of you and you are the best at playing you. Today celebrate your authentic brand by exhibiting a special trait to your inner circle, like your sense of humor, your love of Math as a hobby, liking to read while standing on one leg – you know yourself so pick something.

The psalmist in Psalm 139:14 said, “I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.”

Pottery – hands in contact with the clay in the making of a vase.

Woodworking – sandpaper against the wood in the smoothing of a table.

Tire manufacturing – cutting threads in rubber to improve road traction in the making of a tire.

Conflict – exploration and improved understanding of differences in the maturing of a relationship.

In the above situations, if there was no friction the product simply would not be finished, smooth, effective, or further developed.

Think about instances in your life where you hated the process or the challenge you found yourself going through. But when it was over, you felt gratified it happened simply because you became a better person – stronger, more resilient, wiser, more focused, more purposeful.

In the YouTube video entitled “CAR TYRES | How It’s Made” the narrator introduced the presentation and then expounded with the details of the tire manufacturing process. He mentioned that the rubber tire replaced historic versions of metal and wood. “Inflated rubber tires could better absorb the bumps on the road and the addition of thread gave this invention serious traction.” The process to reach the desired end involved extensive heat, pressure, layering, shaping, fusing, imprinting, and molding. Multiple pieces of machinery took turns in refining the raw material. Upon completion the tire was inspected to ensure that it was uniform and to trim away excess rubber. It was indeed a transformation.

In the same way, we will be tried under intense conditions which can make us feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or exhausted. Let me encourage you today to not expel yourself from the evolution you may be undergoing. You will attain improved value at the least and at best, a new version of yourself.

Job in the bible was tested and underwent some friction yet he understood that God knew his bent. He acknowledged that “…when he tests me, I will come out as pure gold (Job 23:10).” Hang in there.

What does Denzil Washington, Joyce Meyer and Thomas D. Jakes have in common? With the support of their spouse, they excelled in their purpose.

According to Denzil, his wife Pauletta made their house a home by doing the “heavy-lifting.” That gave him the support to excel in his career. In the article Who Is Denzel Washington’s Wife, Pauletta Washington? Denzil said, “Everybody has their ups and downs; we’ve had ours. It’s hard work, you know. But we made a commitment. A spiritual foundation helps everything—marriage, work, peace of mind.” Over his career Denzil starred, co-starred in many films, and amassed awards too many to mention here. Him and his wife were married in June 1983.

At first Joyce’s husband Dave was not onboard with her call to ministry. But he changed his mind and decided to back her up in whatever she did. In fact, it was his idea to start the TV show, “Everyday Life,” in the early ’90s. Today Joyce is known internationally as a speaker and author. They were married for 55 years in January 2022.

On their 35th Anniversary in May 2017, Bishop Thomas D. Jakes honored his wife as he reflected on their marriage over the years. He shared that “they endured some major challenges and changes throughout the years.” However, “the constant has been our unwavering love and her consistent loyalty to me and the vision God gave me!” Today the accomplishments of TD Jakes, as he known, include renowned speaker throughout America, author and movie producer.

My wife and I have been married for over fourteen years. Because God is sovereign, I have come to believe in her purpose in my life and vice versa. I learned two important aspects to her purpose. One is to challenge me to be a better person, and another is to cheer me on when I fall short as well as when I hit the mark. The trick is to remember to accept her even when her method of challenging me is different to how I would challenge. It is easier received when I remember that we are on the same team and because her intent is endearing, any perception otherwise means there is probably a misunderstanding.

Today, believe that not only does God want His best for you but so does your spouse – assuming both of you want a healthy marriage. Continue to nurture trust in each other, which helps to better believe in their best intentions even when it seems otherwise.

Your spouse wants to communicate in a language you understand but sometimes may miss the mark. Strive to “do everything in love” according to 1 Corinthians 16:14 and this will serve to govern your intent and approach toward him or her. It may come as a surprise as to how both of you flourish in your individual and collective purposes.