As we wind down the year and look toward a new one, I’ve been reflecting on one of my favorite phrases: “Don’t leave before the miracle.”
This is something I heard a lot—and for the first time—when I began my recovery journey.
It’s particularly poignant and relevant in that context, especially when the stakes are as high as life and death.
But what I’ve come to realize is that this phrase isn’t just about recovery. It’s relevant to any dream, goal, or endeavor that stirs your heart and soul.
If you have a vision—something inside of you that you deeply want to create or achieve—I believe it’s God-given (or, if you prefer, gifted by the universe, Mother Nature, or the Creator—whatever aligns with your beliefs).
On some level, the moment you envision it, you’ve already begun the path toward it. From there, it’s simply a matter of time, forward motion, and persistence.
So, what kills most dreams?
Giving up too soon.
There’s a brilliant quote by the German playwright Johann Wolfgang von Goethe:
Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back…
And then he continues:
“Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it;
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
Essentially, as the famous footwear company says: “Just do it.”
Life is hard. No matter what path you take, there will be challenges. My philosophy? You might as well pursue the things you love.
This mindset has been a cornerstone of my recovery from alcoholism and addiction.
There was a time when I was killing myself—avoiding life’s resistance at every turn. But (through the grace of something far beyond my understanding), I shifted. I decided to embrace the resistance instead of running from it.
And now, I try to apply this lesson to all areas of my life:
- Exercise and nutrition
- Spiritual growth
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship
- Friendships
- Marriage
- Parenting
In my experience, the things that have brought the most value to my life are the ones that have demanded the most of me. What I’ve invested into something is exactly what I’ve gotten out of it.
The best recipe I’ve found? Pursue the things you want in life with everything you have.
Don’t give up.
And remember—it’s never too late.
Oh, and by the way, I wrote a song about the holidays called Holidaze. I’ll share more about it next week, but for now, let me know what you think of the song!
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Ari Welkom, known on stage as Avatari, is an LA-based alt-rock singer and actor. A Harvard graduate, married father of two, and former college athlete, he practices martial arts and champions anti-bullying, equal rights, and unity on his journey of recovery. Follow him on Instagram or Twitter (X)!
Join Ari for Mental Health Mondays at 4pm PST here >>> https://www.instagram.com/avatariworld/
See his videos on YouTube
Anna Azarov Photography
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This Post is republished on Medium.
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Photo credit: iStock
