Once upon a time, I found myself in Spain, immersed in the rich culture and history of Seville during a college study abroad program. It was there, on an ordinary day, that my friend Martha and I embarked on a journey to La Giralda, the awe-inspiring tower adjacent to the city’s monumental cathedral.
After ascending the towering spiral staircase and taking in the breathtaking view of the city from above, Martha posed a question that resonated deeply with me: “I wonder what kind of legacy I’ll leave.”
Her inquiry hung in the air, echoing the universal longing to make a lasting impact on the world. Standing amidst centuries of artistry in the cathedral, we pondered the endurance of our own creations, yearning for our contributions to stand the test of time.
Like many, we harbored aspirations of leaving behind something meaningful, of leaving a mark on the world. Yet, the fear of failure, the uncertainty of our abilities, and the daunting path to greatness often hold us back. We succumb to self-doubt and undermine our own potential before even beginning our journey.
How do we sabotage our aspirations? With words—insidious words that stifle our passion and deter us from pursuing our dreams. Phrases like “aspiring” and “wannabe,” expressions of longing such as “I wish” and “someday.”
But there is a remedy to this self-imposed limitation, a simple yet challenging path to realizing our dreams: Embrace your true identity.
And who are you? If you dare to believe it, you are a writer. Your voice, your message is needed in this world. Until you acknowledge this truth—that you are indeed a writer—you withhold from the world a gift that could transcend generations, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and impact.