Dear Firestarter ,

I didn't write to you last week. At first, I caught myself making excuses: I was busy writing, recording, teaching, working on a book, wrapping up year-end sessions... But the truth? I didn't have a specific word in my spirit for you. And for the Firestarter Collective, I won't settle for sending something that isn't birthed from genuine inspiration.

(By the way, I launched my upgraded website this week - sholaamaraibi.com. In one intense day, I rewrote and published 12 articles. I'd love for you to explore them when you can.)

So, to the gist of this newsletter (The word/insight on my spirit for you)

Some years ago, I used to write a blog called ‘life well-articulated’’, and I recently stumbled on some of my old writings. Reading through those entries, I realized my mission hasn't changed: to articulate and give meaning to our shared experiences, awakening us to the power within.

Here's what's burning in my heart to share with you today: Understanding is the bridge between proximity and transformation.

Many walk beside us physically, yet remain distant from our purpose. Proximity isn't intimacy. A life well-articulated requires understanding - it isn't just about knowing facts, but translating them into meaning. It's the simple reason people ask "Do you know who I am?" If you understood who was standing beside you, if only you're not just following people but understood the power in you that proximity with them can fan into flame, if only you don't take the prophet under your roof for granted... It is the difference between wandering in circles and walking purposefully toward your destiny.

Think about the children of Israel in the wilderness. Their story teaches us that without understanding, even miracles can become mundane. Without understanding, we risk circling the same mountains, facing the same challenges, and missing the same opportunities.

Understanding:

- Guides us into touching what God has prepared for us

- Makes us submit to necessary processes

- Helps us remain mindful of God's faithfulness in tough seasons

- Brings life into focus

- Transforms principles into wisdom we can pass on

Jesus asked his disciples, "Do you still not understand?" He knew that understanding would break their cycle of confusion and doubt. Matthew 7:7 reminds us that understanding comes through asking - through active seeking and engagement with truth.

As we approach the end of this year, I pray that you bridge the understanding gaps in your life. May you be grounded in truth, understanding with both heart and spirit what truly matters in your season.

Your fellow Firestarter,

Shola Amaraibi

Poetic Visionary

P.S. What understanding are you seeking in this season? share with me - I'd love to hear what’s going on with you.

Also for the next 7 days, I’ll be leading ‘The Uninhibited Worship group in prayers online, join us here:  https://chat.whatsapp.com/FNkOwrZmI6q1CAzlf3G5X7