Dear Future Self,
April came in like a flood, and instead of fighting the current, I surrendered to it. Instead of clenching my fists, I opened my hands. Instead of demanding answers, I yielded to the questions. I've been more present.
This month, I've celebrated my 42nd trip around the sun, crossed milestones that made me feel both ancient and brand new, and stepped into new territory as the Creative Culture Director at Vibe Church San Diego. I am grateful. This year's birthday was the first I've ever spent outside of California, and while the pull of Daygo weighed heavily on my heart, I found new gratitude for the flexibility to build my career remotely.
Weekend before last, my wife blessed me with a flight to see my children, to witness the baptisms of my youngest two. It was a Moment that felt like watching legacy unfold in real time. Sadly, within the next week, I received news that one of my uncles passed away, forcing a self-confrontation with mortality that hit deeper than expected. It's a lot to be with at once. With new life also came another to pass, a reminder that this life is a vapor, and a wake-up call to be about my father's business with the time I have been granted...
REST IN POWER, UNCLE MAURICE.
The Calling on my life has been evolving. What once looked like pulpit politics and clergy collars now looks like digital spaces, creative leadership, and Christ culture. Artwork. Spirit work. Ministry in motion. None of it will be bound by tradition, but fueled by the Truth, and translated through the lens of my life. Creativity has been reintroduced to me as a spiritual practice and I aim to give GOD glory.
New music is brewing. Something raw and reflective. Some of it may even find its first breath through Vibe Church. Time will tell. What's certain is that the pen is moving again. The mic is calling again. The sound is rising above the surface again.
This season has shown me what it really means to carry multiple worlds inside one body the streets, church pews, studios, and late-night brainstorms. I just never imagined I’d arrive at a space where all of it would work together at once, without contradiction or controversy.
Growing up, I lived with a story that I had to be perfect before I could ever be acknowledged or celebrated. That to be a man, a leader, a creative meant hitting every mark flawlessly. Life broke that illusion. Now I understand that the highest form of achievement is presence - to show up as my Self, rooted and willing to experience whatever Life has for me, as it is and as it isn't. Therein lies the real opportunity.
I trust GOD with the map He's buried in my blood. I couldn't even tell you all of the steps I’m about to take in this faith walk, but... it’s already a vibe.
In Time,
2.0