Timing

The sun does not rise at midnight

Yearning

I believed the universe had forgotten me-

Feared the shooting star

Would never fall in my direction.

The moon fell silent on the horizon.

Hope vanished as the sliver disappeared.

Venus emerged with enchanting majesty,

Announcing a transformation intertwined with clarity.

A reminder of the grand design and the destined plan.

The sun does not rise at midnight.

Instead, brilliant reds and oranges herald its arrival at dawn.

~ Michelle R Smith

(Inspired by Alix Klingenberg’s Something Resembling Love workshop)

Photo by Michael Niessl on Unsplash

Often, we find ourselves striving to force our dreams into existence, imposing our will upon the world. We pour our energy into our endeavors with sweat and toil, driven by relentless self-improvement. Yet our desires often dance beyond our reach, like mirages on the horizon.

While setting goals and intentions can be valuable, it is equally important to surrender to a grander plan that transcends our own. Embracing the unfolding of our heart’s desires at the right moment requires us to relinquish control, like a gardener who learns to nurture seeds rather than dictate their growth.

Releasing the urge to control every detail allows the necessary pieces to align naturally for our intentions to materialize. As I expressed in the poem earlier, “The sun does not rise at midnight.” Just as we cannot bend the rules of nature to force the sun to rise prematurely, we cannot rush the outcomes of our endeavors. They remain tantalizingly elusive, like dawn just over the horizon.

I have learned over the years that my higher power responds to questions posed during prayer in one of three ways: yes, no, or not now. The ‘not now’ response can feel like an eternity, leaving us grappling with questions like, “When will my dreams come true?” This waiting period can test our patience, but it also encourages us to prepare for what we want to materialize precisely when we need it most.

Practicing mindfulness can anchor us as we navigate moments of uncertainty, helping us remain patient by staying present. We can replace our fears and worries about the future with gratitude for the blessings that surround us in the here and now. The light that holds and guides us is ever-present, though it emerges in its own time and place.

Some days are cloudy, hiding the sun’s radiant splendor, while others shine bright with clarity and momentum. Regardless of the day, breathe easy in the knowledge that the fulfillment of our dreams will arrive at the right time, in harmony with the rhythm of the universe.

Photo by Mark Rolfe on Unsplash

Final Thoughts

The magic unfolds through the embrace of patience, as our heart’s desires begin to manifest at precisely the right moment. Instead of desperately trying to force our dreams into existence, we can envision ourselves as magnets, effortlessly drawing what we yearn for closer to us. It may take time for the planets to align perfectly to create the ideal conditions to actualize our dreams.

During this period of eager anticipation, we have the opportunity to let go of our urge to control the situation and our fears and trepidations. As we detach from these inner tethers, we can welcome a sense of ease, confidence, and the courage to venture through the unknown.

As we initiate the quest that awaits us in 2026, let us discover moments of mindfulness to remain present in the here and now. May we find joy not just in reaching our destination, but in the process of experiences and adventures along the way. The actual growth lies in the lessons learned and the meaningful relationships nurtured along the way.

Photo by Josie Weiss on Unsplash

Weekly Reflection

In what ways have you been trying to force an outcome along your path towards your goals, perhaps even straining against the natural flow of the current? What thoughts or feelings do you need to release to cultivate a deeper sense of patience and joy throughout your adventures? How do you engage in mindfulness practices to fully embrace and appreciate this exact moment in time?

Opportunities to Connect

Join me live here on Substack for Ask a Therapist on January 13th at 1:00 pm CT. I hope to see you there!

Kindred Connections

Join me on Saturday, January 17th, via Zoom at 1:00 CT for Kindred Connections. In January, we will cultivate peace, hope, and serenity this winter. This is a gathering of Hopeaced Together’s paid members.

Kindred Connections is a welcoming community where you can find guidance, engagement, and togetherness. In this nurturing sanctuary, we strive to cultivate meaningful connections that bring purpose to your life. Join us for our monthly Live gatherings, where we explore inspiring topics related to wellness, personal growth, and creativity. Let’s embark on this journey together, deepening our understanding of ourselves while uplifting each other in the process!

Michelle R. Smith

Mental Health Therapist~ Writer~ Peacemaker~ Advocate🕊