Have you ever felt the sting of being left out? The frustration of feeling overlooked, even among those who are supposed to be your closest allies? I know that feeling all too well. As a young girl, I was bullied and ostracized, and that experience shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until much later. Even in professional settings, I’ve felt that same sting—being excluded, misunderstood, or judged for my uniqueness.

But here’s what I’ve learned: what felt like rejection was actually redirection. God reminded me that I was set apart for a reason, not left out without purpose.

I’m shiny. Always have been and always will be. Even on my worst days, I have more light and positivity than most people. Why? Because God created me that way. He made each of us with a unique light and purpose that doesn’t depend on others’ acceptance or approval.

Think about Noah, who kept building the ark even when people laughed at him because they had never heard of rain (Genesis 6:9-22). He didn’t need their approval to continue the work God had set before him. He didn’t let their doubt cloud his faith or diminish his purpose. He simply trusted and kept building.

Or consider Abraham, who didn’t try to convince his entire family to join him when God called him to a new land (Genesis 12:1-4). He understood that his calling was personal, that his journey was his alone. He moved forward in faith, leading with purpose and trusting that God’s plan was greater than any fear or uncertainty.

And then there’s the widow with a jar of oil, burdened with debt. She didn’t try to involve all her friends in her miracle. She followed the prophet Elisha’s instructions, gathered empty jars, and poured out what little oil she had. God provided her with enough to pay off her debts and live abundantly (2 Kings 4:1-7).

The Key Lesson? Focus on Your Path and Trust God’s Plan.

God has a unique path for each of us, a purpose that is ours alone to fulfill. When we focus on our own journey and allow God’s discernment to guide us, we find that He brings the right people and opportunities into our lives. These are people who won’t gossip about your shine, complain about your prices, or try to make you compromise your God-given vision.