The Power of Self-Belief and the Gift of Support.
By Kateb Nuri-Alim Shunnar
There’s something deeply human about wanting to be seen, understood, and supported, especially by those closest to us. When we set out to achieve something meaningful, whether it’s a personal goal, a creative endeavor, or a significant life change, we often look to our family and friends for encouragement. But what happens when that support isn’t there? When instead of words of encouragement, we are met with indifference or even skepticism, the pain can be profound. It can lead us to question our worth, our abilities, and the value of what we are trying to accomplish.
I have walked this path myself, and I understand the sting of not being supported. I am an artist, and from the time I began writing at the age of 10, I knew what it felt like to have my gifts go unrecognized by those around me. I remember my 6th grade teacher, Mr. Alvin Edinburgh, who was the first person to truly see the potential in my poetry and short stories. One day, he asked me to stay after class, and he shared something that left a lasting impression on me. He said, “Son, you really have an amazing talent. Do your parents know you write?” I nodded, but admitted that they didn’t pay much attention to it. With a determined look, he said, “I’m taking your work to the principal today because I’ve told her about you, and we’re going to request a parent-teacher conference. We believe your parents should know just how gifted you are, and that you should be enrolled in a program to nurture your talent.”
He handed me a sealed envelope and told me to give it to my parents. He even called them to let them know the note was coming. When I got home that evening and handed over the envelope, my parents immediately assumed I was in trouble. They were worried about having to take time off work to come to school. Already, I began to feel the heavy weight of discouragement settling in. I wished at that moment that my teacher had never acknowledged my talent, never sent that letter home, and I even wished I didn’t know how to write at all. These were the thoughts that clouded my young mind.
When my parents finally asked what the letter was about, I explained that my teacher believed I was a talented writer and wanted to discuss it with them. The look they gave me was far from the excitement or pride I had hoped for. Instead, it felt like I had just told them I was suspended from school. Eventually, they did make an appointment with my teacher and the principal, but after the meeting, their reaction was a simple, “Thank you,” with no further discussion. As we left the school, they turned to me and said, “Who do you think has money to put you in any program? We’re barely making ends meet, and we just don’t have the time or money for this.”
That moment marked a turning point in my life. I stopped writing that day, and it wasn’t until I was a sophomore in college that I picked up a pen again. The belief I had in myself had been shattered, and it took years for me to rebuild it. But in time, I did. And now, I stand firm in the message that I wish someone had told me back then: Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine.
To anyone who has ever doubted themselves because of a lack of support from those around them, I want to say this: Your worth is not determined by the validation of others. Your talents, dreams, and aspirations are valuable, even if the people closest to you can’t see it. Keep pushing forward, keep believing in yourself, and don’t let the doubts of others dictate the path of your life.
But this reflection isn’t just for those who have been on the receiving end of doubt and discouragement. It is also for those of us who may have unknowingly become dream killers. We have to stop the cycle of negativity and lack of support, especially when it comes to the people in our lives who are striving for something good and positive. The words we speak, the actions we take, and even the things we choose not to say or do can have a profound impact on someone else’s journey. If we are not careful, our indifference or criticism can snuff out the spark of creativity and ambition in someone we love.
It’s easy to dismiss the dreams of others when we don’t share their passions or understand their goals. But just because something doesn’t resonate with us personally doesn’t mean it’s not important or valuable. We must be mindful of the power our words and actions hold. When we choose to support rather than discourage, to uplift rather than tear down, we become instruments of positivity and change in the lives of others.
Supporting someone doesn’t always require grand gestures or financial investment. Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word, a listening ear, or a simple acknowledgment of their efforts. Let’s be the ones who speak life into the dreams of others, who offer a helping hand, and who pray for their success. If you don’t understand or connect with someone’s passion, pray for them and for yourself. Ask the Creator to open your heart to it and to help you see the value in what they are trying to achieve.
We live in a world where negativity and doubt are all too common. But we have the power to change that narrative, starting within our own families and communities. Let’s be intentional about how we show up for the people in our lives. Let’s choose to be a source of encouragement rather than a stumbling block. The impact of our support, or lack thereof, can be far-reaching and long-lasting.
To all the artists, dreamers, and doers out there who have faced doubt and discouragement, I want you to know that you are not alone. Your journey may be challenging, and there may be times when you feel like giving up, but remember that you have something special to offer the world. Believe in yourself, even when others don’t. Trust that the Creator has placed those dreams and talents within you for a reason, and keep moving forward with courage and conviction.
And to those who have the privilege of being in the lives of these dreamers, I urge you to be mindful of the role you play. Your words can either build someone up or tear them down. Choose to build. Choose to support. Choose to be a blessing in the lives of others.
As we move forward, let us commit to being a community of support and encouragement. Let us recognize the importance of believing in ourselves and in each other. Together, we can create an environment where dreams are nurtured, talents are celebrated, and everyone feels empowered to pursue their goals.
In closing, I leave you with these words
Hands lift heavy hearts,
Words of love and light take root,
Dreams bloom in the night.
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