You are the light through the tunnel, not the one at the end of it.
The "light at the end of the tunnel" is a time-honored metaphor for success and resilience. It's a symbol of perseverance and hope for better times ahead. But in seeking that far-off brilliance, we risk losing sight of our own inner splendour, the light that resides in each of our hearts. Think for a second about the possibility that we don't have to wait for that external light when we can actively create it. In the same way that a single candle can dispel night, each of us has the power to shed light on our own journeys and ignite the passion of those around us. The decision to be a beacon doesn't require us to hide until we reach the end of the tunnel; rather, it gives us the strength to shine regardless of the obstacles we must overcome.
The question then becomes why so many people choose to hide their own light. The idea of conditioned expectation is one explanation. Our culture has taught us to look to things like job promotions, romantic partnerships, and successful completion of personal goals for emotional satisfaction. This has caused us to forget that our own inner light can serve as a source of fortitude under any conditions. Envision a world in which every person actively seeks to become a source of inspiration to those around them. Bringing our own light into the world motivates those around us to do the same. The resulting chain reaction of increased agency will illuminate previously inaccessible pathways.
A quote by the late Maya Angelou says, "Nothing can dim the light that shines from within." It serves as a constant reminder that our inner light is unaffected by external factors; it is a flame that can weather any tempest. If we let our light shine, we can overcome our preconceptions and see obstacles in a new light. We don't passively wait for light at the end of a tunnel; rather, we shape our experiences and move through the world with a sense of purpose that illuminates everything we do. Let us keep in mind, as we navigate the complex maze of life, that we are not merely seekers of light but also its creators. When we believe in our own unique brilliance, we can use adversity as motivation and triumph over defeat. It's time to shed the shackles of social convention and shine as beacons of hope for ourselves and others as we navigate the dark alleys of life.
Oluwaseun David ADEPOJU
