On December 12, 2009, I launched a new blog, "Speak to the Darkness." The blog was initially an opportunity for me to learn to write about my life experiences, with the ultimate goal of fulfilling my dream of authoring a book. Despite lacking formal training or knowledge in writing, I was eager to embark on blogging as a step toward book writing.
The title "Speak to the Darkness" was inspired by Isaiah 45:3, which states,
"And I will give you treasures hidden in the darkness—secret riches. I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who calls you by name."
This scripture filled me with hope, inspiration, and a sense of adventure about writing. I was intrigued by the idea of uncovering the 'treasures' and 'secret riches' that God has concealed in the darkness. The excitement I experienced was akin to embarking on a treasure hunt.
In my study of the scripture's meaning, I learned that during the time of this prophecy, God was orchestrating the release of the children of Israel from Babylonian exile. He intended to use King Cyrus of Persia to execute His plan. Cyrus would discover actual hidden treasures that the children of Israel had concealed as they were taken into captivity. These 'treasures in darkness' were also symbolic of blessings concealed during times of hardship, offering hope and a redemption plan for the children of Israel. Similarly, God sent Jesus to die on the cross to save us from sin.
A treasured childhood memory of mine, which echoes the theme of this blog, is observing my grandfather teach oratory skills to his son—my uncle—during the evenings. These sessions consisted of my grandfather speaking and my uncle attentively listening. Later, my grandfather would have my uncle stand outside our fale (Samoan house) to practice delivering his speeches into the enveloping darkness. The nights were utterly dark, as our village lacked electricity at the time. My late uncle was renowned for his eloquence.
Fourteen years have passed since I began blogging, and now I am revisiting that very first entry.
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