Life is a journey of unexpected moments. Even the expected moments can change into the unexpected if a twist or turn is thrown into a carefully preplanned situation.

On July 13, I sat on a 13 hour Emirates Airline flight from New York City that was heading to Dubai before I reached my final destination in Nepal. I sat and thought about the experiences I would have in my one month internship as a middle school professional development English language and literacy teacher trainer in Kathmandu. A peer and I were traveling together. We were expecting to work in four middle schools in this short time period. Questions kidnapped my mind. Did I bring enough educational materials? Which activities could I teach to best motivate the teachers and their students? Would I have the autonomy to incorporate my own teaching style that celebrates student’s different intelligences and learning styles into an interactive student centered classroom? Would the teachers and students accept my efforts or look at them as strange? Would the school communities accept me based on my character and not just my nationality, skin color or educational background? I felt a nervousness that was unfamiliar and absent from previous international work experiences in Belize, Japan, and Ecuador.

Despite my emotions, I knew I had to move forward while keeping three primary goals in mind. I was going to collaborate with the Nepalese teachers and administrators on their lesson planning formats, teaching techniques, and curriculum designs. I was determined to create strong relationships built on a foundation of mutual respect as well as a cultural and language exchange. I would work hard and smart to best meet the needs and requests of the school’s programs using my skills, experiences and self-motivation.

When we are in the moment that is preparing us for a larger moment, it is often difficult to accept the fact that we must just live in that moment. We must be the best versions of ourselves and move forward in faith. In that moment leading to the larger moment, breathing soothes the body. Creating room for positive self-motivational thoughts comforts us. Understanding that we have everything we need within us extinguishes the flames of fear that try to consume us. When love for self, others and our purpose lights our paths, we will triumph.

On the plane, I took the time to breathe, to create positive thoughts by remembering that I am doing what I love. I am unapologetically living my purpose and following my destiny. When the plane landed I felt peace, my heart smiled and I knew that I was where I was supposed to be. Today, I encourage you to live, enjoy, and celebrate the moments in your life that are preparing you for the next stages of your life. I challenge you to step out of your comfort zones as you work toward being the best version of yourself. I support you as you pursue your endeavors and follow the dreams that have been tattooed on your heart. Today, tomorrow, and always know that you are beautifully and wonderfully made to take the next step of faith with bravery. Breathe, move forward, and always remember that no one does you better than you.