As the year unwinds, and the days rush by, and time progresses forward towards uncertainty, bear these indelible truths in mind:
- Effort and hard work are the only true currencies. There are many truths in the world, but this is one that echoes through time and space. Try, try hard, and try often.
- The goal is commensurate with the sacrifice. The more one wants, the more one must give. If the prize is worth it, the sacrifice made en route to its obtaining will not sting as much.
- More is only more, not better. Quality will always trump quantity. So it has been, so it ever shall be.
- That which you do most is that which you do best.
- The reward may appear in an unexpected form and at a surprising time. Rest assured “…whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.”
- Growth and rest are intrinsically entwined. Growth and progress happen not in periods of stress or strain, but after them when one can rest, relax, and practice reflection. As any athlete knows: sometimes one needs to step out of the game and sit on the bench before getting back in the fray.
- There are no trials or triumphs that last forever. No peaks, plateaus, or valleys can be permanent. Know this, and know peace.
- Struggle and success are universal. There is not one person favoured or cursed by the biology, physics, chemistry, or spiritual harmonics of the cosmos.
- There is no easy way from the earth to the stars. And that is the whole point.
But also know this: for as long as the universe remains silent we are called upon to make our glorious noise.
Rémy Ngamije is an award-winning Rwandan-born Namibian author, editor, publisher, photographer, literary educator, and entrepreneur. He is the founder of The Forge.