There is something I have been sitting with lately.

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I grew up in a Christian home. Faith was woven into everyday life. Prayer was familiar. Scripture was guiding. And like many of us, I also grew up around words spoken with certainty about the future. Words that were meant to guide, protect, or warn.

As a child, I watched how deeply those words could shape choices, emotions, and even fear. Sometimes without anyone realizing it.

As I’ve grown older, my inner world has expanded. I have learned to sit in stillness. I have found grounding through movement, through breath, through practices like yoga that bring me back to myself. This has not taken me away from faith. It has brought me closer to peace.

What changed is this. I stopped letting other people’s certainty replace my own discernment.

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Recently, I was reminded how powerful words can be. How a single conversation, even when well meaning, can linger and affect your mood, your spirit, your sense of calm. It reminded me that boundaries are not about rejection. They are about protection.

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You are allowed to protect your peace.

You are allowed to grow beyond the version of yourself that people remember.

You are allowed to change your beliefs, your practices, your rhythms, and your understanding of God and of yourself.

You do not have to remain the same person you were years ago just because others are more comfortable with that version of you.

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Growth is not rebellion.

Growth is not disrespect.

Growth is not forgetting where you come from.

Growth is becoming more of who you are.

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You are allowed to listen inwardly.

You are allowed to trust what brings you peace rather than fear.

You are allowed to choose practices that calm your nervous system and soften your heart.

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If you needed permission today, let this be it.

You are allowed to grow.

You are allowed to reinvent yourself.

You are allowed to step fully into the person you are becoming and to do so gently, confidently, and without apology.

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Own it.

Bask in it.

Live it fully.

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Love,

Tai| ZenMomTribe 🤍