Bro Stephen IGWE, CSJ.

The world today is full of creativity. Everyone has something to say, what to wear, who to like, how to live, what success should look like. While many live in this creativity, many young people are quietly drowning in confusion. They smile online, but inside they are asking, “Who am I, really?”

Peer pressure has become a silent master. To belong, to feel among, to be accepted. In order to achieve this, some learn to hide their real selves. They laugh at jokes that hurt others, post things they do not believe in, follow trends that do not bring peace, but distraction, confusions, and unproductive; just to be accepted. And, when the blessed night comes and the phone screen fades, with their eyes ready to sleep; the heart feels empty again.

But my dear brothers and sisters, your worth is not in how many people clap for you, or the kind of fake life you decide to live just to feel among. It is in who you are when all pretense hiding under, that cheer you get stopped, and then you ask yourself, is this truly me?

You were not created to be a copy of someone else. God made you unique, a story that has never been told before. The world needs your real self.

Yes, sometimes you will feel lost. You may make mistakes. You may even feel betrayed by friends you trusted. But those moments do not define you; they refine you. They teach your heart how to be strong, gentle, and wise.

Forgiveness is one of the hardest but most beautiful choices you will ever make. When you forgive, you set yourself free. You stop carrying the bitterness that poisons joy. You begin to heal, to love again, to see goodness in people, and in yourself, dear brothers and sisters.

Integrity may look unaccepted in our world today, but it is through integrity we become the real version of ourselves. To do what is right even when no one is watching is how you grow from a follower into a leader. A heart that stays true in small things becomes a light in big ones.

So, when the world tries to tell you who you should be, be still. Listen to the quiet voice within your heart, the one that tells you, “You are loved. You are enough. You are meant for more.” That is God’s voice. And when the noise fades, your true voice will rise, make the right decision, be the difference for others to follow. Be strong, and full of love.

 May God our heavenly Father, who sees your struggle, your silent tears, your effort, your commitment, your willingness to be good, shine his face upon you. Amen

STEPHEN CARES.