Embracing Light Bearers: Navigating Darkness with Guides of Hope and Transformation
Light Bearers: Illuminators of Truth and Transformation
When we looked at the moon last week, I told you, "You have to learn to see in the dark." I did not elaborate, when perhaps I should have. When we are in the dark, it’s less about learning to see in the dark and more about finding the people already holding the light. The truth is, the dark isn’t something to conquer alone; it’s something to navigate with others who have already found their way. Those are the people who light the path for us when we can’t see the next step. And sometimes, we don’t realize how much their light is guiding us until we find our own.
As I reflect on this, I see how my own journey has unfolded through cycles of darkness and light, through fog and clarity. The dark—those moments of uncertainty and struggle—have been my teachers, just as much as the light bearers have been my guides. But it’s the light bearers who truly carry us through, illuminating the spaces where we can’t see, leading us when we’re uncertain of our own way forward.
Historically, the term "light bearer" originates from figures like Prometheus or the morning star, symbolizing enlightenment and divine illumination. In modern society, light bearers can be seen as those who challenge darkness—whether ignorance, oppression, or systemic injustice. They are the activists, educators, healers, and artists who spread awareness or foster change.
I’ve been reflecting on my personal path a lot lately, especially in light of the challenges a few close women in my life are facing. It has made me deeply grateful for the women who helped shape me—those who, like lamp posts in the dark, held up a light just when I needed it most.
I’ve often spoken about the fog—the uncertainty, the confusion, the feeling of being lost. At times, it felt like nothing was clear, and the path ahead was veiled. But every time I’ve found myself lost, I’ve been guided by women who carried their light. These women didn’t just show me the way; they shone through the fog, their presence a beacon that led me forward, offering clarity when I needed it most.
I am thankful for my mother. She broke many cycles for her children, showing me what strength looks like and instilling in me high standards, a strong work ethic, and a drive to succeed. Yet, for all she broke, she also passed down family trauma and patterns I had to learn to dismantle. In a strange and twisty way, that too was a blessing. It forced me to become conscious of what I carried, to decide what was mine to keep and what needed to be left behind.
Because of the way my life unfolded, I met many strong and wonderful women—cycle breakers in their own right. These women appeared always at the right time, guiding me through the fog.
To my foster mother, who tried so hard to build a relationship with me—thank you for putting in the work. It wasn’t easy, but you never gave up. You helped prepare me for my role as a step-parent and showed me that healthy relationships were possible, even when I didn’t yet know how to create one.
To my friend in Quasqueton, who taught me how to have fun but also showed me the importance of self-sufficiency—thank you for opening your home and your story to me. I know I didn’t finish school, but I promise you, no one has ever been able to trap me. I always found a way to take care of myself. And more than that—I'm still here because of you. I was so close to giving up back then, but you gave me a reason to hold on.
To my friend from the little golf club restaurant, who was always unapologetically herself and inadvertently set me on a career path that lasted a decade—thank you for believing in me.
To the woman from that same restaurant who taught me that liking your partner is just as important as loving them—thank you for that wisdom. Love can be complicated, but genuine fondness is a strong foundation.
To my former boss, at that same restaurant —thank you for being an example of strength and grace. You showed me what leadership should look like, and your presence was refreshing in ways I didn’t fully appreciate at the time.
To the woman who trained me in my first career outside of food service—thank you for teaching me, for loving me, for seeing something in me when I wasn’t sure what I had to offer.
To my friend in Badger, who loved me when I questioned if I was even lovable—thank you for sharing your pain and letting me share mine. More than anything, thank you for gently pushing me to create. Your perspective shaped me at a pivotal moment, and I carry it with me still.
To my sisters—thank you for letting me watch your journeys unfold, sparing me from learning some lessons the hard way. Your growth and healing made it possible for me to start my own.
I am grateful for all these women and many more. I didn’t feel like an adult until I turned 30, but now—now I get to be the candle for others. The women before me carried their light, passing it down when I needed it most. And now, it is my turn to hold the flame for those still finding their way.
To all who have shared their wisdom, their kindness, and their light—thank you.
Connection to The Star Tarot Card
As we transition to exploring The Star tarot card next week, consider how your journey from darkness to light mirrors the card's symbolism of hope and renewal after upheaval. The Star represents the guiding light that appears after the destruction of The Tower and the illusions of The Moon—much like how the light bearers in your life appeared during your times of uncertainty and struggle.
This Week's Spotlight: Kamilah Joy
Kamilah Joy (@healwithkamilahjoy on TikTok) is emerging as a prominent figure in the field of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Coaching. Her impact was particularly felt during last year's Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, when she courageously invited survivors to share their stories.
As a Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Coach, Kamilah Joy embodies the role of a "light bearer," guiding those who have experienced narcissistic abuse through their healing journey. Her approach aligns with the growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by survivors of narcissistic abuse and the specialized support they require.
Kamilah Joy offers various resources through her TikTok account, including her "Wounds to Worth Express" class and other events. These offerings likely focus on empowering survivors, helping them rebuild their self-esteem, and providing tools for recovery - key aspects of narcissistic abuse recovery coaching.
Her presence on social media platforms like TikTok allows her to reach a wide audience, providing accessible information and support to those who may be struggling with the aftermath of narcissistic abuse. By encouraging survivors to share their stories, she's creating a supportive community and raising awareness about narcissistic abuse.
For those interested in learning more about Kamilah Joy's work or accessing her resources, her Linktree can be found in her TikTok bio. As a beacon for those navigating the darkness of narcissistic abuse recovery, Kamilah Joy is indeed "one to watch" in this crucial field of healing and empowerment.
With Love holding my little candle,
Mia Marie
