I Am Successful!

Today, out of nowhere, I realized that… I am successful!!!

It took me a long time to achieve my success, and it is necessary to tell you the story of what happened, so that you can replicate it. It all started one day during my adolescence:  someone had given me a map to find a treasure. At first, I took that map, clenched it in my fist with a somewhat mocking smile, and put it in a pocket with skepticism and a lack of enthusiasm. I never wore those clothes again, so that map seemed destined to be forgotten. Many years passed and on one fortuitous occasion, I stumbled upon that crumpled up and battered paper, which supposedly had the guidelines to reach the place where the treasure was hidden.

This time, as an adult, it was different; curiosity awakened in me, and a strange force pushed me to take that mysterious map seriously. I decided to open my mind and my heart to the possibilities even though it was a time in my life when everything seemed to be rolling towards an abyss. I studied the map, read its instructions, imagined how different my life would be if I managed to follow the indications point by point and reach the final goal. Surprisingly, as I approached the treasure’s location, my heart became more excited and I began to experience increased feelings of faith, peace, and security. Yet, the most impressive thing was what happened when I reached the end of my journey: it was truly an unparalleled treasure, something indescribable in its beauty, majesty, and magic. Just by feeling it, seeing it, or touching it, my fears, doubts, and anxieties vanished. I never wanted to leave that place again. The proximity to that treasure made me feel noble, powerful, and at the same time genuine, honest, and humble. It allowed me to see and perceive my existence and all Creation with wonder-filled eyes, and with a deeply grateful and plentiful heart.

That treasure turned out to be the love of God, of Jesus, and of the Holy Spirit. It is the Trinitarian love that restores our true identity as beloved children of the Most High. Once we discover that treasure, we truly feel successful. We no longer need to idolize invented and false gods, such as the god of money, the god of lust, the god of “applause,” or the god of “professional titles.” We can now recognize our naked souls, without the armor of resentments, grudges, hatreds, and anxieties that turn this valley of love that is our planet into a valley of tears.

I invite you to seek your success on earth: it is the precious treasure of experiencing Trinitarian love in your life.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matthew 13:44-46)