THE LIGHT LETTER
Welcome to this week’s Light Letter.
Inside: inspiration from a legendary actor, a fresh way to judge your friends, and a fun winter read.
Carry on.
Deep Dive - Manifest
I’ve spent a lot of time around people who have manifested things.
My dad started his own chiropractic studio while raising five kids. My wife built and ran her own yoga studio. She’s led retreats around the world. Retreats people pay their hard-earned money to attend. I’m not trying to brag (kinda am).
I’ve watched both of them turn very little into thriving communities that people rely on. And both of them believe in manifestation.
But when I listen to people talk about manifestation, I usually hear things like:
Say it and the universe will provide it.
If you can imagine it, it’s already yours.
I like the idea of manifesting. But I’ve seen a different story play out.
Every person I’ve witnessed who’s built something great has had one thing in common: boots on the ground.
They did the gritty work.
They showed up. Not once, but every day.
They kept grinding when they didn’t feel like it.
They stepped up even when doubt was loud.
What I don’t hear talked about much is how unglamorous that part is. How often it looks like nothing is happening. How belief usually shows up after the work, not before it.
My dad didn’t miss a day. Not once. Quitting on himself wasn’t an option.
My wife cold-called people to fill her first retreat, before she had proof anyone would say yes or show up or if it would even be good.
A wise boss once sat me down. “You’re over here, then over here, then over there,” he said. “You have a ton of potential. But that’s all it will ever be unless you know what you want. I can’t know it for you.”
And I think that’s the real power of manifesting.
Not wishing.
Not waiting.
But getting clear and then showing up long enough for the universe to meet you there.
This Week’s Inspiration
Two Beers and a Puppy. The only true way to know if you like somebody (and a great dinner conversation topic around the holidays).
“I’ll be on the other side somewhere.” Thanks for the inspiration, Captain Jack Sparrow.
We finally read Dungeon Crawler Carl. It may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for a fun, page-turning winter break read, this is a gem.
Forrest’s Notebook
🍻
Not many of us push past the discomfort
the desire to sleep instead
not many know what it’s like to fight the syrupy urges
every morning
and every evening too
few know how many times
they have to lose the day to win the year
not many of us give our soul
every time we wake
but to those who do
here’s to you
and the fight you fight today
Until next time,
Live your light.