This story was submitted by a member of the Spiritual Changemakers Community.
Over the years, I came to the realization that no matter how many times I fall short, my faith is shaken; it has never been lost, and there is always a connection with God and me in everything I do. I have this conviction that I am on a hero's journey, as Joseph Campbell stated in his mono myth, and on this the journey I am traveling with God.
This idea and conviction have not only shaped my life, but it has helped me step out of myself to see the bigger picture which is my inner calling, my drive, a strong connection to mankind, and the world's pain, which also helps me outperform, be a forefront runner, and be exemplary as a changemaker wherever I find myself.
My approach towards spiritual, social, and environmental challenges has been difficult considering where I am coming from and some of the people I was surrounded by those who either try to impede growth and change or, due to little opportunities for them as youths, feel trapped. In such situations, oftentimes I feel obligated; I feel my drive leading me to inspire and uplift others by using my platform and the media even though, in most cases, people are adamant and apathetic because, in their mind, there is no hope. If not resolute and strong enough that one can be influenced to believe it too, but fortunately for me, because I believe strongly in positive change, service, and my calling; it has been etched on my mind consciously and subconsciously that this is what I live for and the life I was meant to lead. So, I always channel that faith and belief in my calling even in my darkest moment when I fall short or decide to take another trajectory, and it has always been a savior and helps me stretch myself, even more, starting from being the change I advocate for and wanting to see to leading others on the path of change.
A case in point was when I worked voluntarily as a television presenter and youth advocate at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation Television (SLBC). I decided to work there because I felt devoted to my calling. I felt youths in Sierra Leone needs more advocates. They need their voice and cries to be amplified and heard, especially those youths who, as a result of negative constant modifications, feel lost and trapped. I became more sensitive and connected to things like this and could perceive it. It was a great experience and an honor to be a forefront runner with other youths to help shape our country. This experience changed my perspective - As the adage goes, "when the perspective changes, position changes." I moved from being an advocate to representing my country at the United Nations and the 28th AFS Youth Assembly in New York.