Light My Fire
There's an award winning TV series out right now (that I absolutely love) about the grueling process of resurrecting an old, rundown restaurant. This place, once vibrant, is a shadow of its former self. A key challenge in one of the episodes, is the battle to stabilize the gas lines, which must endure several demanding fire suppression tests. Everything has to be perfect, flawlessly functional, to pass inspection and finally launch.
For many, I would imagine this scenario resonates deeply. It mirrors a period in life where the focus is on keeping things meticulously contained. We try to manage our internal “gas lines”, ensuring life runs smoothly, avoiding too much pressure. The goal is to keep things cool, calm, and collected—to prevent blowing the lines. This often means intense self-regulation, doubling down on personal growth strategies, or even revisiting old patterns that offer a semblance of control. We might even find ourselves caging our truest selves, taming our impulses for the perceived comfort of others. It makes sense in the moment, as it's the only way of living we've ever truly known.
The Inevitable Explosion
But then, the pressure becomes too much, and something shifts. That careful containment gives way to an undeniable truth. Looking back, every single day, every challenge, every quiet struggle, has been a step towards this pivotal realization.
The old lines aren't just broken; they're beyond repair. This isn't a small break; it's a complete demolition. The existing structures simply cannot handle the explosion of power that's been simmering, patiently waiting for its release. A full rebuild was always the only path forward.
Standing amidst the ruins, you realize you're absolutely done with the small shit, done with anything that limits potential or stifles growth. Every last piece of that old life—the habits, the beliefs, the familiar comforts clung to for years out of habit or perceived safety—must be purged.
And thankfully, that's exactly where I landed.
The slate wasn't merely clean; it was polished, clearly reflecting a future that stretched wide open and limitless before me. It became undeniably clear that it was time to build something new, something that could finally hold the immense power that was now ready to ignite.
To everyone who understands this journey, the moment to ignite has arrived.
Isaiah 43:2 (NIV): "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."
