Back To Basics
Topic Category: Progressive Mindset
My mom is getting married this week, and after a series of ceremonies over the past few months, it has prompted me to reflect on the aspects of life and some timeless truths I’ve learned throughout my 37 years. She looks absolutely thrilled about the wedding, and honestly, I am overjoyed for her. At the end of the day, life truly is what you make of it. Funerals and weddings have a unique way of bringing people together—whether for something sorrowful or something joyful. It was heartwarming to see family unite in celebration of love, which reminded me of so much.
Mom Happy
Amor Fati
A few years ago, I encountered a piece of philosophy that I never expected would become the defining principle of my life. I often refer to it so frequently that I’ve started engraving it on all my suits. The phrase “Amor fati,” a Latin term meaning "love of fate," embodies a mindset of embracing, accepting, and loving everything that life presents—including suffering and loss—rather than merely enduring it. Rooted in Stoicism and championed by Nietzsche, this philosophy encourages us to transform obstacles into fuel for growth, recognizing all events as essential.
Since my first failed startup during COVID, this perspective has allowed me to see life through a new lens. It taught me that events will occur—both good and bad—and it ultimately depends on how we respond to situations. Without a proper understanding of the forces that shape our lives, we may perceive many occurrences as chaotic, but they often hinge on our interpretations. It’s also crucial to grasp the nature of obstacles.
“The impediment to action advances action; what stands in the way becomes the way.”
I once read a book by Ryan Holiday titled The Obstacle Is the Way, which emphasized how we should approach obstacles through the lens of Stoic wisdom. This concept resonated deeply with me, reinforcing my belief that challenges are integral to life. They don’t hinder progress; rather, they strengthen us to push forward. I realized that, regardless of what happens, as long as we are alive, there is always a path or choice that can lead to greater achievements. The struggle is our ally, and as Napoleon Hill wisely stated, “Every adversity, failure, or heartbreak carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” This truth has echoed in my life—many situations I once thought I wouldn’t survive, I eventually did, often leaving me astounded. This is where faith enters the equation.
Faith
I am now completely convinced that our thoughts shape our lives, but it is faith that ultimately determines everything. Many have different interpretations of what faith truly means, but at its core, it involves believing in unseen forces that prompt us to act in ways that may defy common behavior or create alternative realities over time. This belief has been the cornerstone of all my endeavors, showing me that anything I wish to bring into the world is possible, no matter the challenges I face. Faith acts as a force multiplier within the infinite realm of time; hence, the saying “faith without works is dead.” One cannot genuinely believe in something while simultaneously refusing to act upon those beliefs. That’s why, whenever Jesus healed someone, He didn’t say, “My power has made you well,” but rather, “Your faith has made you well.” This is profound, as it illustrates that the transformative power lies within us, and it is our responsibility to nurture it. The mind shapes reality, originating from belief, and thus faith leads us to gratitude.
Gratitude
James 1:2 states, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”
If there is one aspect of life that carries immense significance amidst all challenges, it is gratitude. Regardless of our experiences, maintaining a grateful attitude while remaining open to learning can make a remarkable difference—especially when waiting for something we earnestly desire. Patience will test the authenticity of our hopes, which is why being genuine is so vital.
I’ve gone through various moments recently, and these past weeks have been filled with clarity, celebration, and the forging of new paths for the future. These guiding principles have shaped me into who I am today, and I hope they resonate with you as well. I look forward to my mom’s wedding this week, feeling grateful for everything that has brought her and me to this moment. I take immense pride in the person I have become.
Family is an essential element of life, and no nation has ever thrived without strong family values. In a world that often exaggerates, glorifies overwork, and insists on sharing every detail of our lives, I hope we can discover a truth that is subjective yet provides meaning beyond the noise. It’s about returning to the basics in a mindless society that attempts to rob us of genuine joy and hopes for the future, as my wonderful girlfriend always reminds me.
Remember, all things are permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Find your truth and live it, for one day, we will no longer be here, and what will endure are the moments that were truly meaningful to us.
Amor Fati
