I took a detour through life. I was born on a path, and I walked that path for a time. I lived peacefully in my daydreams, wandering through thousands of acres of land on horseback, with my cape flapping in the breeze. I was a legend made of mystic power in this state of being. Then one day, I got curious. I saw a path that veered from my place of comfort. This path caused me to wonder, "Is my power, my legend, meant for something?" This path was new. It was unknown. It was dangerous and uncomfortable. In my ignorance, I took this path. It weaved and wound through beautiful fields and dangerous forests. It caused great joy and immense pain. At times, I curled up on the ground, wounded and worn out. My innocence and ignorance slowly became replaced by experience. But somewhere from deep inside, flickered the fire of legend and the mystical power I possessed. I rose to my hands and knees and crawled until I could find the strength to stand. I had to keep pressing on. Something was drawing me forward.
Along this path, I came upon a sword. This sword was stuck in a stone of raw grace, a stone that coursed with power. I knew this sword was why I was drawn to take this path.
My joy and my pain of this journey carried a mighty purpose. Now, this sword would be my helper, my defense. This sword would raise my courage and my hope to continue my journey. I wrapped my hands around the handle of this blade. A voice erupted from the rock! It spoke these words to me, "Do you accept this heavy burden that heroism entails and swear fidelity to your kingdom?" I replied with a gentle but certain "Yes." The rock then released the sword into my grip, and I felt its power coursing through all of nature. The truth in my acceptance caused the power of this sword to course through my being. The acceptance of this sword and my journey, past and present, instantly healed my body, my mind, and empowered my soul. The voice then went on to say, "Carry this sword with strength and prepare your heart for kindness. Never use it to do harm or to offend, but use it to defend what is good and just."
The rock sealed shut, and the voice vanished. I was left standing with the sword in hand and a whole new sense of the journey that brought me to meet my sword in the stone. I accepted my responsibility and received my sword. My kingdom was healed, and my mystical legend of power returned to the surface. I will press on. I will meet my potential.
