For me, the most challenging part of mindset and spiritual transformation is confession. I know God already knows everything I do and think, but actually coming to Him and admitting it is where I hesitate. It’s like I get stuck between knowing He’s loving and still being afraid of feeling exposed. I think part of it is I really don’t like disappointing Him. So sometimes I’d rather just push forward and pretend I’m fine instead of sitting with what I actually need to confess. When I avoid confession, I notice it affects how I hear God. Not because He stops speaking, but because I pull back a little. I don’t sit with Him as openly. I get caught in my own head more. There’s this quiet distance, like I’m trying to talk to God while holding something behind my back. But when I do confess, even when it’s uncomfortable, I feel that closeness come back. There’s peace, like the air clears. It reminds me that confession isn’t God exposing me to shame, it’s Him inviting me into freedom.

To me, carrying my leader’s heart means serving with a spirit of humility and unity. It is not about trying to stand out or do things my own way, but about honoring the vision God has given them and helping it come to life. It looks like praying for them, being teachable, and showing up with a willing heart even when no one notices. When I carry my leader’s heart, I am choosing to put pride aside and let God use me to bring peace, support, and encouragement where it is needed. It reminds me that serving under someone is also serving God, and that true leadership starts with a humble and obedient heart.

In this season of my life, I feel like I need to pull from God’s patience the most. I am learning that growth takes time, and I often get frustrated when things do not happen the way I expect. Remembering how patient God is with me helps me slow down and trust His timing instead of my own. His patience reminds me that He is still working even when I cannot see it, and that every season, whether good or difficult, has a purpose. I want to show that same patience toward myself and others, knowing that God never gives up on me no matter how many times I fall short.

The symbol of the Holy Spirit that I connect with most is fire because it feels like the perfect picture of what God has done in my life. I did not grow up with much faith, and life was pretty hard. I went through a lot of pain and made mistakes trying to fill the emptiness I felt inside. When I finally turned to God, I could feel something shift. It was like the Holy Spirit lit a small fire in me that started to melt away the bitterness and guilt I had been carrying for years. That warmth reminded me that I was not alone anymore and that God could still use me no matter where I came from. Since then, the Holy Spirit has been the strength that keeps me going and gives me peace when I start to doubt myself. Moving forward, I want that fire to keep growing. I want it to keep changing me, guiding me, and helping me love people the way God has loved me.

I believe I can sacrificially serve the ones I’ve grown “used to” by spending more quality time with them and help them when in need. I’ve always loved helping others, it comes naturally to me - even if they’re a complete stranger to me. Even if I’ve known someone for years, my closest friends, I remind them that I still care for them. As for serving them as a friend, a family member, or even a stranger, the smallest thing can make someone’s day or help them have a better mindset. Even if it’s simply saying hi, or that I like their shirt, it’s better than nothing at all.