“Break free from constraints, absolutely believe in yourself and create your own reality”
By Sanet van Breda
Embrace Your Inner Courage and Live a Life of Extraordinary Adventures
A courageous woman embarks on a journey from South Africa to a city that does not sleep New York. During her trip, she encounters a moment of fear when she realizes she needs to venture out into the cold and dark streets of an unfamiliar city to buy a sim card. Despite her apprehension, she decides to face her fears head-on and sets out on her mission. On her way she met a few amazing people that laugh at her as she mention Robot instead of a Traffic Light. Through this amazing story she would like to share a few things that she had learned that amazing day!
The Moment of Doubt
Being on her own in a foreign city had initially filled her with a sense of excitement and adventure. However, now she found herself talking to herself, realizing she had forgotten to purchase a sim card at the airport. Understanding the exhaustion from her 32-hour journey and the long quest through customs, she felt bone-tired. Nevertheless, determined to conquer her fear, she embarked on a quest to find a mobile shop.
With the doorman at the hotel as her guide, she set out in the direction he had pointed. Thoughts of connecting with her beloved husband back in South Africa and the upcoming day filled with exciting sightseeing fueled her determination to find that sim card. It was a vital link to stay connected, to share her experiences, and to feel a sense of comfort and familiarity in this foreign city.
Though doubt lingered in her mind, she reminded herself that bravery wasn’t about being fearless, but rather about facing one’s fears head-on. In that moment, she made a conscious decision to be courageous, to step out of her comfort zone, and to venture into the unknown streets of New York City.
Little did she know that this small quest for a sim card would become a pivotal moment in her journey, one that would teach her valuable lessons about resilience, self-belief, and the power of overcoming obstacles.
Embracing Fear
Stepping through the turn doors and into the chilly night air, she wraps her jacket tightly around her, seeking warmth and comfort. People hustle past her on the bustling New York City streets—some engrossed in their phone conversations, others seemingly in a race to reach their destinations. Undeterred, she takes a deep breath, determined to confront her fears head-on.
Recalling the doorman’s directions—go left and at the next intersection, turn right—she sets off on her path, venturing beyond her comfort zone. However, as she navigates the seemingly never-ending street, doubts creep in. Was 17th Avenue up or down from her current location? The rush of people passing by, their hurried footsteps drowning out her thoughts, makes it challenging to maintain a clear sense of direction.
Despite the uncertainties and the seemingly unfriendly faces around her, she refuses to let her smile fade. She extends warmth and kindness, hoping for a moment of connection amidst the rush. Yet, the busy pedestrians pay little attention, disregarding the still-red traffic lights as they hurry past her.
In this moment of vulnerability, she finds solace in a silent prayer. She calls upon a higher power, seeking guidance and strength to conquer the unfamiliar streets and the biting cold that surrounds her.
With faith as her anchor and courage as her compass, she takes another step forward, determined to persevere. She knows that within her lies the resilience to overcome any obstacle, even amidst the bustling chaos of a city that never sleeps.
The Journey Begins
As the word “Amen” escapes her lips in a quiet prayer, she is taken aback when a gentleman nearby responds. Surprised, she asks him to repeat himself, realizing her “Amen” wasn’t as silent as she had thought. The gentleman kindly inquires if she is lost, and she nods in agreement, admitting her uncertainty about the direction to 17th Avenue.
With a friendly gesture, he points her in the right direction, indicating that she needs to go up. Inwardly, she chuckles, knowing that if her husband were with her, he would always say “right” or “left” instead of “up” or “down” when discussing directions. The thought of her beloved husband brings a bittersweet pang of longing—she misses him dearly.
Grateful for the older gentleman’s help, she musters the courage to ask a question that she knows may sound strange. She asks how many “robots” there are between her current location and 17th Avenue. The gentleman and a few others who have gathered around start to laugh, perplexed by her choice of words.
Puzzled, he inquires what she means by “robots.” In response, she points to the traffic light, using the term she knows from her home in South Africa. Their laughter grows, and she joins in with a light-hearted smile. Explaining that she is indeed from South Africa, she shares how traffic control signals are referred to as “robots” in her homeland.
Triumph and Empowerment
Amidst the laughter and camaraderie with the strangers, she couldn’t help but share a playful observation. “It almost looks like yours,” she remarks, referring to the traffic lights in her home country. The remark triggers another round of uproarious laughter, creating a joyous atmosphere. Within the crowd, a lady compliments her accent and the hat adorned with flowers, further brightening her spirits.
In the midst of the laughter and warm exchanges, the encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the human connection that transcends cultural differences. Through shared laughter, bridges are built, empowering her to continue her journey with a renewed sense of confidence and purpose.
Undeterred by the cold, she walks six blocks to the right until she reaches 17th Avenue. From there, she traverses two blocks, her anticipation growing as she nears the mobile shop. As she steps inside, she is met with a rush of warmth, both from the temperature and the welcoming smile of the young lady working there. Overjoyed to have someone to keep her company, the young lady assists her with purchasing the sim card.
In that cozy corner of the shop, they strike up a conversation, connecting on a deeper level. The young lady’s hospitality shines through as she offers a cup of coffee, further cementing the bond formed during this brief encounter. They share stories, laughter, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends the transactional nature of their interaction.
With the sim card safely in her possession and a heart filled with gratitude, she retraces her steps, finding her way back to the comfort of her warm bed. Reflecting on the triumph of overcoming her fears and the empowerment gained through human connection, she drifts off to sleep, carrying the memory of this adventure with her.
The journey she embarked upon, although seemingly simple, has become a testament to her resilience, courage, and the transformative power of embracing the unknown. It is a reminder that even in the most unfamiliar of surroundings, human warmth and connection can guide us home.
Lessons Learned
Her experience navigating the streets of New York has taught her valuable lessons that transcend geographical boundaries. It has reminded her that, at our core, we are all human beings seeking belonging, safety, love, and the well-being of our loved ones. Whether in New York or South Africa, these universal desires unite us all.
Reflecting on her encounter with strangers and the laughter they shared, she realizes that despite cultural differences, the traffic lights—whether called “robots” or not—have the same purpose. The red, orange, and green lights convey the same message of caution, pause, and go, reminding her that we are more alike than different.
With newfound fearlessness in her heart, she eagerly anticipates the adventures that await her tomorrow. She dreams of savoring a delicious smoothie at a local bar, ascending to the top of the iconic Empire State Building, exploring the city on a red bus tour, and fulfilling her heartfelt wish of visiting the 9/11 memorial site. The impact of those tragic events extends far beyond American borders, reaching the hearts of people worldwide, including her own in South Africa.
Through her experiences, she has discovered that embracing fear opens doors to remarkable experiences and connections. It has empowered her to approach each day with courage and an open heart, ready to forge connections, seek adventures, and foster a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
As she drifts off to sleep, grateful for the lessons learned, she carries within her the realization that in the grand tapestry of life, we are all interconnected, woven together by our shared aspirations, dreams, and the indomitable spirit of human resilience.
Conclusion
Bravery knows no boundaries, it transcends borders, cultures, and languages. It resides within each and every one of us, waiting to be awakened. It is an invitation—an invitation to step outside our comfort zones, to face our doubts head-on, and to embark on our own extraordinary adventures. Within each of us lies the capacity to conquer our fears and embrace the unknown. Whether it’s venturing into unfamiliar streets, pursuing a long-held dream, or reaching out to someone in need, the brave heart within us yearns to be heard.
May this story be a reminder that you too possess a brave heart, ready to be unleashed. Take a leap of faith, knowing that on the other side of fear lies a world of endless possibilities, incredible connections, and personal triumphs. As you walk the streets of your own life, remember that you are not alone. Just as the strangers in this tale found laughter, kindness, and connection, so too will you find support, encouragement, and a community of kindred spirits ready to cheer you on.
Let this story embolden you to step into your own brilliance, to face your fears with grace, and to embrace the journey of becoming the most authentic and empowered version of yourself. So go forth, with a brave heart and a spirit ablaze. Let the world bear witness to your extraordinary courage, as you leave your own indelible mark on the tapestry of life. Remember, you are capable, you are resilient, and you are deserving of a life lived fearlessly and fabulously. Embrace your brave heart, for it is in your hands that the power to transform your world lies.
Look after yourself, smile often and keep on dancing, mwah!
