My Story, By Debbie Rosas.

Words are more than just a means of communication—they’re bridges to connection, vessels of thoughts and feelings, and portals for self-reflection. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the power of words and the way they shape who we are and how we connect with others.

Growing up, I was always interested in growth—not just physical growth, but emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth. I believed that part of growing up was about becoming a better person. Raised in the 1950s, I had three clear maps to guide me: my parents, my school, and my church.

Each of these influential maps came with its own set of rules, its own expectations, and its own consequences. And then there was the ultimate map—”The Law.” I never questioned the rules. Instead, I made being “good” my personal mission; a contest with myself to improve and grow.

Words have always been sacred to me, carrying much wisdom beyond the surface of their meaning.

I can still recall the sensations of doing better: the tingling pride of a “Good job, Debbie,” the spark of self-recognition, and the profound connection between cause and effect. These feelings became my first conscious awakenings—moments of stepping closer to the “me,” I wanted to become.

But even as a child, words outside of my inner contemplations interrupted my listening— while teachers thought I was distracted—but in truth, I was listening to words from within. I later named this inner dialogue “my voice,” and the process of tuning into it became my personal “Awakening.”

Attention is one of the greatest gifts we can give—to others, to the world, and to ourselves. For me, paying attention to words creates a resonance and a cosmic wave that connects my essence to the Universe. Some words touch my heart deeply, becoming signposts on my path. Others have hurt.

I’ve learned not to give attention to words that hurt—they don’t deserve the sanctity of my focus.

Not all awakenings are joyful. Some are so painful that they almost push me to turn away. I’ve learned that when painful words surface, they demand attention. Ignoring them doesn’t make them disappear; it only allows them to settle deeper, manifesting as physical pain or draining my vitality.

Through practice, I’ve trained myself to lean into discomfort, to breathe through pain, and to wait for calm to return. Once centered, I begin a dialogue—with my body, my heart, and my mind. It isn’t easy, but it’s essential. I use my sensory awareness to bring together the secular “me” and the sacred “us.”

This practice transforms painful words into wisdom that creates a resonance which fills me with light and love. The tingles together with the pride and the zing of, “Good job, Debbie” return; but then they are infused with a deeper understanding of myself and my connection to the Universe.

When I write or speak, my intention is to inspire action for bodies, minds, and spirits to move.

How do I know when I’ve truly awakened? There are signposts for me—moments of profound clarity and peace. Here are some of the indications I notice about my own awakening.

• I feel deeply connected to the divine.
• Painful words are no longer burdens, but transformed into conscious communication.
• My breath flows freely, and my body feels at ease.
• I am fully present, with no need to pretend or hide.
• My physical and energy bodies merge into a single and harmonious consciousness.
• My heart opens fully, receiving wisdom meant just for me.
• I experience what it means to make peace—with myself, with others, and with the world.

In movement toward doing better, words are my tools and I wield them with care and reverence.

For me, awakening isn’t a once in a lifetime event. Awakening is an ongoing journey. Sometimes it’s joyful, sometimes it’s painful, but it always leads to growth. Through this process, I’ve learned to stay curious and to ask “Why?” I use painful words as a guide, rather than an obstacle.

My hope is that by sharing “My Story,” I can inspire you to listen more deeply—to your own unique voice and to your own individual wisdom waiting for you, within. Awakening is available to all of us and every step toward it, brings us closer to our truest selves for healing and happiness.

So, the next time life whispers—or shouts—words, don’t turn away from any of them.

Listen and Awaken!

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