Category: Lifestyle
Keep Drilling: A Lesson from Kenya
I’ve encountered countless inspiring stories in my journey, and I’m thrilled to share a recent
experience that left a profound mark on me during my trip to Kenya in September 2023. This
story embodies the essence of resilience, unity, and unwavering determination.
As part of our mission trip, one of our initiatives centered around supporting the installation of a
vital water pump in a distant village located in Mombasa, Kenya. This village grappled with a
significant and urgent problem – the absence of convenient access to clean water. Every day, the
residents undertook arduous journeys, covering miles to obtain this essential resource, a
necessity often overlooked in more fortunate parts of the world. Also, this village was situated
within a predominantly Muslim community, while our contributions were channeled through the
Christian bishop with whom we collaborated to bring about this transformational project.
Initially, things appeared to be going smoothly. The drilling process began according to
schedule, and there was hope that the project would be completed as planned. However, as the
drilling crew descended to a certain depth, they encountered an enormous rock blocking their
access to the water source below. It became clear that without breaking through this obstacle,
access to the much-needed water would remain a distant dream.
The crew valiantly attempted to penetrate the rock, but it proved relentless, breaking multiple
drill bits in the process. Frustration and disappointment loomed large with each broken drill bit.
Even after replacing seven additional bits, that formidable rock remained unyielding, standing
between the village and its water supply. The situation seemed dire. It was a moment of panic
and uncertainty. Yet, it was also a moment of profound realization.
The bishop recognized that this challenge transcended the physical realm; it was a test of faith
and unity. He made a bold decision to bring his people together for 24 hours of fasting and
prayer, seeking divine intervention. What followed was nothing short of remarkable.
Unexpectedly, the Muslim community in the village joined hands with the Christians, standing
together in prayer for a miracle and a breakthrough. It was a powerful testament to the unifying
force of shared purpose and human compassion.
After the 24 hours of collective prayer, they acquired yet another drill bit and resumed
their efforts. As they lowered the borehole into the well, something incredible happened. The
unyielding rock, which had thwarted their efforts multiple times, shattered, and water gushed
forth, filling the hearts of the villagers with hope and gratitude.
From this extraordinary experience, we can draw several profound lessons:
- Keep Drilling: In life, obstacles may appear impossible, but persistence pays off. Keep
pushing forward, even when the going gets tough because progress results from hard work. - Keep Drilling: Setbacks are not failures but opportunities for growth and course
correction. Embrace them as valuable lessons on your path to success. - Keep Drilling: Consistency breeds resilience. The determination to keep going, even in
the face of adversity can lead to breakthroughs that transform your journey. - Keep Drilling: The person who holds the key to your elevation may come from
unexpected places. Embrace diversity and collaboration; you never know who will join
you on your path to upward mobility. - Keep Drilling: Resistance eventually weakens, making way for blessings to overflow.
Trust that your unwavering efforts will yield abundant rewards.
This story from Kenya serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in pursuit, as even the toughest
challenges can be overcome. It’s a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the human
spirit to overcome any obstacle to victory.
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“From Shame to Strength: The Transformative Power of Writing Your Story”
In the quiet corners of our lives, there often lies a story that we’d rather keep locked away, hidden from the world’s judgmental gaze. That story was one of abuse, shame, and fear for me. I concealed it, believing that exposing it would only invite more pain and scrutiny. Little did I know that this very story held the key to my transformation, a journey from being beaten and broken to becoming bold and brave.
The Shackles of Shame
Abuse, in all its forms, leaves scars that run deep, invisible wounds that can shackle the soul. I carried the weight of my story in silence, believing that the shame was mine to bear alone. I was not alone in this; many of us hide our pain behind masks of strength, fearing the judgment of a world that often fails to comprehend the complexity of our experiences.
The Turning Point
It was a pivotal moment in my life when I decided to break free from the chains of silence. I realized that my story, painful as it was, held the potential to set me free. The decision to put pen to paper and share my journey of abuse was not easy, but it was undoubtedly the most transformative.
The Power of Vulnerability
Writing about my experience allowed me to embrace vulnerability. It was terrifying at first, but as the words flowed onto the page, I felt a shift within me. I realized that sharing my story wasn’t an admission of weakness; it was an act of incredible courage. It was a declaration that I would no longer allow my past to define me.
Reclaiming My Power
As I continued to write, I began to see my story in a new light. It was no longer a tale of victimhood but a testament to resilience and strength. Each word I penned was a step toward reclaiming the power that had been taken from me. It was a reminder of the individual authority with which I was created.
The Transformation Begins
The act of telling my story ignited a fire within me. It was as if the words themselves were a catalyst for change. I started recognizing the incredible strength that had continuously resided within me, waiting to be acknowledged and unleashed. I began to rebuild my life, step by step, word by word.
Becoming Bold and Brave
With each paragraph, I shed another layer of fear and self-doubt. I found the courage to confront my past and to heal from it. The more I shared, the more I connected with others who had similar experiences, realizing that my story could offer them hope and solace.
The Power of Writing Your Story
My journey from shame to strength is a testament to the transformative power of writing. It’s a reminder that our stories, no matter how painful, have the potential to free us from the burdens we carry. By sharing our truths, we heal ourselves and inspire others to find their own strength. If you have a story that you’ve been afraid to tell, I urge you to consider the incredible power that lies within your words. You are not alone, and your story has the potential to create ripples of change, not only in your life but in the lives of others.
Remember, your story is not a source of shame; it’s a source of strength. Embrace it, write it, and let it transform your life. In the end, it is in telling our stories that we find our most authentic selves, and from there, we can rewrite the narrative of our lives.
Books Changed My Life
Books allowed me to reclaim my power, inspiring me to build a thriving business, “Books 2 Business & Beyond®,” and establish a brand that resonates with individuals worldwide. That book gave me access to opportunities I never dreamed of and took me across the globe, extending my brand to places like Nairobi Kenya. I used the art of storytelling to transform my life, and now, I want to share this transformative concept with you at the upcoming “Power of the Pen Retreat.”
Why Consider the Power of the Pen Retreat?
Our retreat is not just another event; it’s a life-changing experience designed to help you harness the incredible power of your words. Whether you’re a career professional, a small business owner, an entrepreneur, or a faith-based spiritual leader, this retreat is tailored to inspire, guide, and empower you to use the pen for change and success.
To get your ticket for the retreat, check it out here: https://victoriousyoupress.com/events/
To get a copy of my memoir Bags In The Attic, check it out here on Amazon https://bit.ly/bagsintheattic20
