I am the man in the valley walking through the thick grass. Here, in this place of shadows and hidden dangers, my troubles chase me like a powerful storm. I can see the mountain faintly ahead, its peak lost in the unknown. Yet, in the midst of it all, I feel peace—a stillness whispers to my soul. The rivers flow with rushing waters bringing life to the flowers surrounding her. The birds sing in the distance, dancing to and fro. In all this, stillness follows me, holding me tight. Though dangers lurk, a tranquility surrounds my soul. I have found solace under the trees, where I have become one with my surroundings. It's here where I find my journey.
Few choose to linger in the valley, this place of beginnings, where the path to the mountain is steep and uncertain. The danger here is real, and the unknowns never settle the heart. Yet, as I sit among the beauty of creation, I know this is where the true journey starts. Here, I must prepare for the climb that lies ahead. My hands will be torn up, my body will ache, and my mind will be pressed to its limits. However, what awaits me beyond the peak, although unrevealed, is so much sweeter than this.
We are made for the valley. So why is it so empty? Why do so few choose this path? Many have opted to avoid it altogether, content to remain where they are. But I am here. I have answered the valley’s call, preparing for the climb that lies before me.
I am the man in the valley. I step into its hidden depths. Though the path is solitary, I find traces of those who have come before—faint footsteps, hints of their passage. Their presence reminds me: I may feel alone, but I am never truly by myself on this journey. As I pray for guidance, I am instinctively directed to a dwelling in the distance. Smoke is seen from the chimney as I approach, weary from my journey. A figure welcomes me—one who has traveled this far before. Their hospitality offers more than food; it renews my spirit. In their warmth and wisdom, I find comfort, security, and clarity for the path ahead.
But as comforting as this place is, I know I cannot stay. My journey continues, and I must face it alone. Yet, even in my solitude, I feel a quiet assurance—there will be more places of rest along the way. With each step, I trust that guidance will find me, just as it has before. I know where my help comes from. But as for now, I am required to forge my own path into the depths, into fear and doubt, however I will find my light. For in the valley, there is little that faith cannot do.
As I leave, a quiet guidance follows me. Whether in the highs or lows, this guide is with me, only a whisper away. When the sun shines or the rain pours, You are my comfort. In gratitude and thanksgiving, I press on, knowing You have paved a path for me even when I cannot see clearly. Through this trust, my way is illuminated, and joy fills my heart. Patience wraps itself around me, steady and welcoming. It breathes life into anything dead within me, and I wait delicately, ready for the word.
My thoughts shape my reality. The words I speak can create or destroy. How I see this valley, how I view the mountain before me—it all begins in my mind. Are these obstacles, or are they stepping stones toward something greater? I am told, all I need is a little bit of faith, but why isn't this mountain removed? Everything lies in the daily interaction within my own mind. What am I telling myself about this valley or that mountain? Do I get up and praise or do I sit down and wallow? Do I really want to move forward or am I comfortable in my self-pity? How long do I sit here? The decision is mine.
I wrestle with these questions like the predecessors before me. I can choose to press on for the climb or stop and build my house here, refusing to move.
So here I am. Fear may chase me, and doubt might hide in the shadows, but the light within me exposes them both. These are just illusions, conspiracies I’ve made up in my own mind. But the real thief of joy and creativity is comparison, born from my own thoughts. To live authentically, I must release the need to measure myself against others and embrace the path I am called to walk. The real enemy is me. It's always been me against me. Every single day. So with this light, I cast it upon the darkness of my mind, illuminating all things. Why even hide this light? It exposes what appears to be intimidating only to be found a weakling in disguise. The light is my strength in any weakness, an opportunity to be who I am called to be! My failures and flaws, the light exposes them all, only to be found as stepping stones for my new adventure.
So as I progress, fear and doubt, chase me if you must. It only drives me onward.
I am the man in the valley. This morning air chills my skin, yet fills me with renewed strength. Here, in this quiet place, I have found peace, hope, and the promise of a future beyond the mountain. Here in the valley, I have been tested, and it's in the valley, I am made strong. Here is where faith endures. Though troubles and shadows chase me, I will not fear. Every step forward builds my strength for the climb. I will reach the other side, I am certain. This truth stirs deep within me, an unwavering sensation.
I am made for this journey, forged in the trials of the valley. The climb ahead will not break me, because I am the man in the valley. Here, I am strengthened.
/Barry