NdukuOutLoud

“Whatever is meant for you will always find you.”

It’s a hopeful sentiment. One I used to believe with the same intensity that I now question. Not only because life has been cruel, but because I’ve noticed how often I’ve half-assed and half-felt most things in my life.

I think about it more deeply now-especially as I consider what I’d want my daughter to believe. Because the idea that something meant for you will find you no matter what…it can breed a kind of laziness. If it’s truly meant for me, and it’ll show up regardless, then why do anything at all?

I don’t want to tell her that. But I also don’t know if I have a better alternative.

Usually, it’s framed as divine-meant for you by God. That He is all-knowing, all-seeing. So surely, there are ways for Him to get it to you. Don’t think it will be burning bushes anymore-but hey. (Excuse the gender; it’s just what I grew up knowing.)

But what if I don’t want it? What if it’s “meant” for me by people or systems or something that decided what’s best for me without asking? What if they’re wrong? What if I’ve never wanted it-and still don’t?

Is there a return policy?

I know there are ideas around alignment, purpose and all that stuff I haven’t quite worked out. But right now, I’m leaning into something simpler:

Whatever you put work into will bring forth something.

It might be lessons. It might be a million-dollar company and a couple of best sellers. It might be new people that you never knew you needed. It might not work out the way you planned-because, well, life- but there will always be something to take away from any skill you choose to pursue, any effort you make with intention.

Will that “something” be what you wanted? Or how you pictured it? Maybe yes. Maybe no. Maybe better. Maybe worse. I don’t know.

But here’s what I do know:

When I sleep early, I wake up early and fresh. Writing a few pieces(2 for now) a day has improved my flow and skill. My daughter is happier when we take breakfast together.

I may not be sure what’s meant for me. Or if what I want aligns with what is. But I have some faith that what I put work into will work out.

And I think that’s sound advice for my daughter.

What do you think? Is belief in fate comforting-or limiting?