LIGHT Journal

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l e a d e r s i g n i t i n g g e n e r at i o n a l h e a l i n g & t r a n s f o r m at i o n

@Copyright 2024 LIGHT Journal All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying or other electronic or mechanical methods, without prior written permission of the editor, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. Opinions expressed are the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher.

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ISBN 979-8-9908508-0-4 (Print) ISBN 979-8-9908508-1-1 (Digital) For permission requests, advertising inquiries, and other general inquiries, contact info@light4ph.org.

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Hello, (your name)

Welcome to the transformative pages of LIGHT Journal, where the journey to self-discovery meets the art of

personal growth. In our first edition, we embark on a quest to unlock the boundless potential within, exploring the realms of well-being, resilience, and the pursuit of a purposeful life. Nourish your mind, body, and soul with thoughtful insights as we navigate the path to a more empowered, mindful, and fulfilling existence.

Let’s get to know you better...

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I believe that wellness is

and my wellness journey is fueled by

One area of my life where I would like to improve my well-being is

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I find inspiration and motivation from

and I express my creativity through

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I feel most at peace when I am

When I need emotional support, I turn to

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One thing I love about myself is

I spread my light through

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Write a letter to yourself and place it here.

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Transforming Negativity

This space is dedicated to nurturing the power of your inner dialogue. In this section, we embark on a journey to reshape the narrative we tell ourselves, turning the echoes of negative self-talk into empowering affirmations. Your thoughts have profound effects on your well-being, and here, we explore the alchemy of transforming darkness into light. Let’s delve into the art of cultivating positive inner dialogue, fostering self-compassion, and discovering the resilience that blooms when we choose to speak to ourselves with kindness and encouragement.

In the gentle cadence of positive inner dialogue, we discover a transformative language that paints our world with hues of hope and self-empowerment. This internal conversation becomes a guiding compass, steering us through life’s challenges with resilience and grace. As we learn to silence the harsh whispers of self-doubt, we make space for affirmations that echo our worth and potential. This is not merely about positive thinking but an intentional shift towards self-love, where each word becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of our self-perception. Embracing positive inner dialogue is not just a choice; it is an act of profound self-care, nurturing a garden of optimism within, where the seeds of confidence and kindness flourish.

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1. Things never work out for me.

I embrace the belief that when things don’t work out as planned, it often paves the way for unexpected opportunities and growth. Each perceived setback becomes a stepping stone toward something even better. It’s through these moments of redirection that I discover new paths, learn valuable lessons, and ultimately find the silver linings that lead to greater fulfillment and success.

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2. I’ll never be happy.

I embrace the ebb and flow of emotions in life, recognizing that happiness is just one aspect of the beautiful tapestry of human experiences. I cultivate gratitude and find joy in the simplest of moments, allowing contentment to permeate my life. Moreover, I understand that all emotions, including sadness and challenges, have their purpose in shaping my growth and deepening my appreciation for happiness. By embracing the full spectrum of emotions, I open myself up to a richer, more meaningful existence where happiness finds its place amidst the mosaic of my life’s journey.

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3. I always have the same problems.

Recognizing patterns in my challenges allows me to learn and grow from them. Each time a familiar problem arises, I approach it with newfound wisdom and resilience. By embracing these opportunities for personal development, I am empowered to find innovative solutions, break free from limiting cycles, and create positive change in my life.

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What other negative self talk can you transform into positive inner dialogue?

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Things that make me happy

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Write about Places I want to travel what makes you happy?

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Much like a tree and its roots, where only a fraction is visible above the surface, our lives, too, present a duality: what is readily apparent to the world and the depths that remain concealed beneath it all. Let’s dive into the dichotomy of “what you see” and “what you don’t see” to uncover the visible facets on the surface that shape our external narrative and navigate the submerged complexities—our beliefs, emotions, and untold stories— that influence what’s unseen below the surface of our lives.

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“In the depths of darkness, we unearth the stars within us, guiding us towards the light we were destined to become.”

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Amidst the Encompassing Darkness

Amidst the encompassing darkness, where despair seems to reign supreme, there exists a resilient spirit that yearns for illumination. It is in these trying moments, when the weight of sorrow bears down heavily, that the search for light becomes most poignant.

It is a journey filled with twists and turns, where the path may seem treacherous and uncertain. Yet, even in the bleakest of times, there is a flicker of hope that holds the promise of transformation.

To find light through dark times requires a steadfast belief in the power of resilience and the unwavering strength of the human spirit. It is a process of selfdiscovery and inner exploration, as we delve into the depths of our own souls, unearthing hidden reserves of courage and determination.

Sometimes, it is through confronting our deepest fears and confronting

the shadows within ourselves that we are able to ignite the light that guides us forward.

In the midst of adversity, it is essential to seek solace in the support and compassion of others.

We find light in the warmth of human connection, in the gentle touch of a friend’s hand, or the comforting words of a loved one. It is through the embrace of community and the sharing of burdens that we discover the strength to persevere.

Together, we create beacons of hope, casting a collective radiance that dispels the darkness and guides us towards a brighter tomorrow.

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I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission I give myself permission.

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“Life begins again when we release the fear that we will be disliked for who we are, and give ourselves permission to dance an authentic dance.”

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Take the time to reflect on the dance between the delicate metamorphosis of a butterfly and your personal journey of growth. Consider the stages —from tentative beginnings to moments of introspection and the triumphant emergence.

How do you relate to each phase? In what ways does the butterfly’s transformative journey echo your own evolution? Explore the parallels between vulnerability, strength through challenges, and the ongoing process of becoming.

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Resilience and Renewal: In the cocoon stage, a butterfly’s transformation occurs away from the public eye. Similarly, our self-evolution often unfolds in moments of introspection, renewing our spirits and fostering inner growth.

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Navigating Challenges: Life’s challenges, akin to the caterpillar’s journey, steer us towards self-evolution. Embracing these challenges, like the caterpillar navigating its environment, becomes instrumental in our transformation.

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Embracing Change: Just as a butterfly progresses through four distinct stages—egg, larva, pupa, and adult—our journey of self-evolution involves embracing change. Growth demands shedding old patterns and welcoming new experiences, much like the caterpillar shedding its skin and evolving into a pupa.

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Unveiling Authenticity: Just as a butterfly emerges with newfound vibrancy, our personal journey culminates in the unveiling of our authentic selves. This transformation empowers us to embrace our uniqueness and navigate the world with a renewed sense of purpose.

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I AM KIND

I AM WORTHY

I AM ART

I AM SMART

I AM HONEST

I AM LOVED

I AM LOVELY

I AM LOVE

I AM PEACE

I AM BOLD

I AM STRONG

I AM BRAVE

I AM JOY

I AM WHOLE

I AM ENOUGH

I AM WISE

I AM OPEN

I AM GENTLE

I AM MINDFUL

I AM GRACE

I AM CHANGE

I AM HOPE

I AM HERE

I AM LIGHT

Do whatever you want. (within reason)

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What do you fear? How might you turn your fears into strengths? What might your fears be pushing you to conquer?

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“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more.

It transforms a meal into a feast, a house into a home, and a stranger into a friend.”

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Expressions of Gratitude

Expressing gratitude is a profound acknowledgment of the gifts life bestows upon us, both great and small. It is a conscious act of recognizing the kindness, compassion, or blessings that we’ve received from others, the universe, or within ourselves.

Gratitude transcends a mere verbal or written “thank you”; it’s an embrace of the positive energies that have touched our lives. It’s about nurturing an attitude of appreciation, allowing us to shift our focus from what’s lacking to what we have, fostering both contentment and connections.

When we express gratitude, we not only honor the source of our blessings but also cultivate a positive outlook on life. It’s a conscious choice to find beauty in the ordinary, to celebrate the little victories, and to acknowledge the efforts of others in making our lives better. Gratitude amplifies our happiness and wellbeing, enabling us to savor life’s moments more deeply. It’s a ripple effect that spreads joy and kindness,

inspiring others to embody gratitude as well, creating a cycle of positivity and compassion.

Furthermore, expressing gratitude holds the power to strengthen relationships and build a sense of community. It fosters a culture of appreciation, empathy, and understanding, which are fundamental in nurturing healthy connections. By acknowledging the contributions and support of others, we create an environment where people feel valued and motivated to continue their acts of kindness and generosity. Ultimately, gratitude becomes a transformative force that enriches our lives, elevates our interactions, and contributes to a more harmonious and compassionate world.

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Gratitude: Take a moment to reflect on gratitude in your life. Write about what you are genuinely grateful for today. Consider the small, everyday moments as well as the broader aspects of your life.

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Let’s cut through the noise and get real about what last year has taught us. No fluff, just straight talk about the wins, losses, and everything in between. Share the lessons, the growth, and the moments that made you pause and think, "Well, isn't that something?"

In this honest exploration of last year's ups and downs, remember life's best lessons often come from the unscripted moments. Consider this the reality check you didn't know you needed.

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What I’ve learned so far...

(What are some changes you have noticed in yourself?)

1. What aspects of your character or personality have you noticed evolving or strengthening?

2. In what ways have you stepped out of your comfort zone for personal growth?

3. Describe a significant challenge you faced in the past and how you overcame it.

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Affirma ti

s ere ly wh t c a x I am e ed to be!

I ne

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I am of m the p e yo wn rfect e jou x rne press y. ion

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Use this space to create a vision board.

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Places I want to travel...

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Use this space to create a travel mood board.

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4. How did you bounce back from setbacks or unexpected turns in your journey?

5. What insights have you gained about your relationships with family, friends, or colleagues?

6. Have there been any particular moments that strengthened or tested your relationships?

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...continued on page 108

Glass half full

Glass half empty The debate over whether the glass is half empty or half full becomes irrelevant when you realize the true measure lies not in what's in the glass, but in what you have within yourself to pour into it. Life's fulfillment flows from the abundance you carry within, not the quantity in the vessel before you.

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TAKE WHAT YOU NEED 104

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Discernment

Empathy

Harmony

Serenity

Jubilance

Resonance

Whimsy

Encouragement

Your clarity of understanding is a guiding light. Navigate the complexities with the wisdom of your compassionate heart.

Every journey begins with a single step.

Embrace the unknown; it’s where new adventures await.

Some feelings are beyond words. Trust the unspoken, for the profound often lies in the ineffable.

Your impact echoes far beyond. Every action creates ripples in the vast sea of existence.

Embrace the little joys. Happiness often comes in the simplest moments.

In the calm, you’ll find the strength to weather any storm. Seek serenity within.

In the dance of life, find synchrony.

Your steps contribute to the graceful rhythm of existence.

Spread kindness like confetti. Your compassion can change the world, one act at a time.

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7. What new skills or knowledge have you acquired in your professional or academic life?

8. Reflect on a work-related challenge and how it contributed to your professional development.

9. How have you prioritized your self-care and well-being throughout the year?

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10. Are there new habits or practices that have positively impacted your mental and physical health?

11. What additional new habits or practices could you implement to positively impact your mental and physical health?

12. Reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of the year. What did you achieve, and what remains a work in progress?

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What do you want to accomplish

do whatever you want (within reason)

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13. How did you maintain a positive mindset during challenging times?

14. Reflect on any volunteering experiences or acts of kindness that stood out.

15. How did you incorporate mindfulness or reflective practices into your routine?

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...continued on page 123

I’ll feel better once I do it.

I’ll do it once I feel better.

Sometimes, taking the first step propels you into a space where feeling better becomes inevitable. Other times, acknowledging and nurturing your emotions first can be the catalyst for the action you seek. It’s not about choosing sides; it’s about honoring the ebb and flow of your own rhythm, understanding that self-compassion is the bridge that connects doing and feeling better. In this paradox, find the balance that suits your unique journey, allowing the dance between action and emotion to be a harmonious expression of your growth and well-being.

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Books I want to read...

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16. Did journaling or meditation play a role in your self-discovery?

17. What lessons learned this year will you carry into the next?

18. How do you envision applying your newfound wisdom?

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“Every day you must unlearn the ways that hold you back. You must rid yourself of negativity, so you can learn to fly.”

-Leon Brown

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artist credits

Bianca Kipp cover, p.2, 4–5, 6, 12, 17, 18, 31, 32, 36–39, 49, 74, 101, 103, 105, 106, 117, 120, 122, back cover @ewer.studio AI Assistance p.13, 18, 31, 38–39, 40–41, 50, 52, 53, 56–57, 60–61, 63–64, 78–79, 125 Aiden Oliver “If You’re Reading This You’ll Feel Better/ If You’re Reading This, You’ll Heal” p. 21 Lotanna Ezepue “If You’re Reading This You’ll Feel Better/ If You’re Reading This, You’ll Heal” p. 22–25 126

“What People See vs. What People Don’t See p. 35 Henri Matisse p.68–69 “Plaster Torso and Bouquet of Flowers” Public domain Colin Oliver “Creating Your Story Through Affirmations” p. 71 Alexis Engelhart p. 90–91, 94–95 Madeline Elieiri “Picturing Advocacy” p.98

$19.99 ISBN 979-8-9908508-0-4

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