They Will Tell False Stories… Let Them

Essay 24

August 27, 2025

The path to finding yourself is not an easy one.  A true sign of evolution and growth is the haters that pop up along the way.  Not because you deserve it, not because you are doing something wrong, but probably because you are doing something right. Don’t be surprised if they slander your name, start rumors, or speak ill of you.  Even Jesus was persecuted.

In fact, the magnitude of their hatred may be equal to the magnitude of your good intentions, your light, and your generosity.  It is a tough pill to swallow in the beginning.  I used to ask myself, “Why is it that wherever I go, I become a target?”  Now, I know that it is not personal.  It’s just part of the journey.

Being misunderstood is frustrating and confusing.  For many years, it led to my self-doubt, self-criticism, and thinking that something was wrong with me.  I internalized all of it.  I couldn’t understand why people were mean to me or spread lies about me.  But eventually, my self-love grew to levels that I never thought possible.  Developing boundaries, having consistent self-care practices, and dedicating time for reflection helped me to grow deeper in self-love over time.  As I prioritized myself and my needs above all others, I found greater peace, and my confidence expanded.  As I found ways to understand, and eventually appreciate, even my worst qualities, I started to truly understand unconditional love.

When you achieve unshakable self-love, such that no one can cause you to forget who you truly are, the actions of others do not affect you as much.  I had spent time learning about myself, acknowledging my heart and pure intentions, and reinforcing that I KNOW who I am.  My belief in myself became greater than others’ opinions of me. Since I was a teenager, people have spread rumors about me.  Now, more than 20 years later, it has happened in every workplace and every friend group since.  It is never fun, but it stings less each time.  I no longer attempt to correct them.  It is wasted energy.  I realized that the more my light expands, the more it threatens those who do not understand it.

I was reminded yesterday that light illuminates the darkness, but darkness can never shut out light.  When you are in a pitch-black room, it only takes a single flame to light up the room.  It can reach every corner.  But what about a room filled with bright light?  Darkness cannot overcome it.  Darkness is simply the absence of light.

As your light shines and expands, it will illuminate those around you.  Some will be drawn to the light like a moth, and some will be irritated by it.  Those who are irritated will either choose to look closer at their own shadows that are now visible, or they will react negatively.  It may stir feelings of self-consciousness in them that they reflect back to you as judgment or hatred.  They may doubt your sincerity because they themselves have not nurtured their own light.  Therefore, they cannot fathom the depth of yours.  Either way, do not react.  Do not let it hinder you.  If anything, let it reinforce you to shine brighter.

How are you shining your flame?

Love,

Phoenix Rising