Stop Letting People’s Opinions Steal Your Joy

 

Moment of Reflection: It’s Not Always About You… and That’s Okay

Something happened recently that made me pause and reflect deeply. It’s one of those little moments that sneak up on you but leave a big imprint on your heart. A friend of mine saw an old picture of me — one from just a few months before I had my last baby — and she didn’t believe it was me.

She stared at the photo and confidently said, “No, that’s not you.”

And I was like, “Wait… what? That is definitely me. I remember the day, the outfit, the feeling. That’s me.”

But she just wouldn’t accept it.

What got to me wasn’t that she didn’t believe me — I know who I am. What struck me was how convinced she was in her own perception that she couldn’t accept the truth I was standing there giving her. The energy she gave off — that firm belief that I was lying — was loud. It was so loud I almost questioned myself… almost.

But no. I know it was me.

And that’s when the revelation hit me: people will believe what they want to believe. Their version of you, their version of reality, their opinion — it’s all colored by their own lens, which is often tainted by insecurity, comparison, pain, pride, or past experiences.

Sometimes, it’s not even about you at all.

The Power of Projection

We all walk around carrying thoughts, fears, doubts, and dreams. And some people? Some walk around feeling unworthy, unseen, or small. And instead of dealing with that heaviness, they project it onto others — intentionally or not.

They may try to shrink your shine so they feel more comfortable in their dim.

But here’s what I realized: you don’t have to carry someone else’s insecurity on your shoulders. You’re not responsible for their emotional state. Their disbelief doesn’t get to rewrite your truth.

Protect Your Peace, Guard Your Joy

In that moment with my friend, I chose peace. I stopped arguing. I let her think what she wanted to think. Because I realized the more I tried to convince her, the more I was giving away my peace and power. And for what? To win an argument over my own identity?

Sis, that’s exhausting. And unnecessary.

You are not obligated to explain or defend your truth to people who’ve already decided not to see it.

Your worth isn’t up for debate. Your beauty, your growth, your progress — all of it is valid, even if others can’t or won’t recognize it.

A Word for You, Sweet Friend

If you’re reading this and you’ve been struggling with what others think about you… let it go. What they think about you is not your business.

You don’t need their validation to know you’re worthy. You don’t need their applause to keep walking in your purpose. You don’t need their agreement to know your truth.

Let them think what they want. Let them doubt. Let them misunderstand.

You keep loving yourself. You keep showing up. You keep standing in your truth.

Because when you try too hard to prove yourself to people who are determined not to believe in you, you end up tired, bitter, and disconnected from the joy that belongs to you.

Here’s Your Reminder:

• You are enough, with or without their approval.
• You are amazing, even when they don’t see it.
• You are allowed to celebrate your growth, even when others try to minimize it.
• And most importantly — you don’t owe anyone a watered-down version of yourself to make them comfortable.

Let people have their bad days. Let them battle their inner demons.

But you — sweet, strong, joyful you — don’t let their cloud cover your sunshine.

Keep your joy. Protect it like the treasure it is. Because that joy? It’s yours. And nobody gets to steal it unless you hand it over.

So don’t.

With love and joy,

Maryam

💛 MaryamsJoyfulLife.com

The Name That Calms My Storms

 

Moment of vulnerability and transparency here.

For years, I’ve shared my faith, my life, and my struggles with the world. And time and again, I’ve boldly declared that my struggles won’t define me—but my faith and how I overcome will.

I’ve always leaned on prayer—calling on the name of Jesus, inviting the holy angels to surround me and my family, and even using different meditation sounds to center myself. Over the years, I’ve met so many amazing people who enjoy meditating too, and I love that there’s a place for peace, stillness, and connection in all of it.

But here’s one thing I’ve noticed about myself—and maybe you can relate.

Whenever I’m traveling—whether it’s a short local flight or a long international journey—and that plane hits turbulence, the first thing that comes out of my mouth is:

“Be still in Jesus’ Name!”

Immediately, I start praying and declaring:

“This plane is covered with the blood of Jesus.”

“God has a plan for me and my children, and it does NOT include a crash!”

Before every flight, I lay my hands on the plane and speak:

“Journey mercies in the Name of Jesus!”

Every single time, Jesus has come through for me. He has never failed me.

While I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for God’s protection, I’m also reminded of how seriously I take the name of Jesus—and how much power there is in that name. The peace that washes over me when I speak His name is like nothing else. That name has calmed storms in the air and storms in my life.

Maybe you’re reading this and you’re going through something heavy.

You’ve tried everything.

Called every name.

Read all the books.

Listened to all the advice.

But still… no breakthrough.

Try calling on Jesus.

Begin to declare His name over your life—

Over your children.

Over your health.

Over your marriage.

Over your finances.

Over your business.

Over your dreams.

Speak it boldly. Speak it consistently. Speak it in faith.

And most importantly—be open to receiving His help. Sometimes He comes through in ways we don’t expect, but always right on time.

And as I write this, I just remembered something I need to go speak the name of Jesus over.

So please excuse me while I go declare His name over my business, my friends, my finances, my day, and every part of my life.

Thanks for reading—and don’t let anyone steal your joy.

You are loved. You are covered. And you are never alone.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

With love and faith,

Maryam 💛

MaryamsJoyfulLife.com

When It All Falls Apart—God Is Still Writing the Story

 

What’s up, beautiful people! Today, I want to share something deeply touching and inspiring—a true story from one of my beloved sisters that reminded me of the undeniable power of faith and God’s divine intervention.

She’s a woman of strength, a mother of six, and a wife. But recently, she found herself in a storm that felt never-ending. Life hit hard—money was tight, her car had broken down, and the roof over her family’s head was no longer secure. In the midst of trying to hold it all together, she had to move her entire family into a hotel. It wasn’t what she wanted, but it was what they had to do.

Someone close to her had loaned her a car so she could get around, take care of her kids, and try to fix what was broken. But even that small help turned into heartbreak. One day, while she was out trying to find a solution for her family, that very car was taken back—right on the street. And what hurts the most? It was someone she trusted. Someone from her inner circle. I won’t lie—when she told me, my heart hurt for her. Because I knew she didn’t deserve that kind of humiliation.

Yet even through the betrayal, embarrassment, and uncertainty, she never let go of her faith.

I don’t remember the exact day everything shifted, but I remember what she told me happened next. The Sunday after that difficult week—the week she had to watch someone she loved pull the rug from under her—she was sitting in her hotel room and suddenly felt an urge to attend the church service happening in the hotel’s conference room.

That wasn’t a coincidence. That was divine setup.

During the service, the pastor looked straight at her and said something that shook her. He told her, “God said you should try again. Call that contact you’ve been trying to reach.” She listened. After the service, she picked up her phone, dialed that number one more time—and this time, they answered.

That one phone call changed her life.

She ended up meeting with that contact and walked away with a $100,000 blessing. CASH. Not a loan. Not a promise. A blessing. A miracle. Her life began to turn around from that moment. She praised God with everything in her and couldn’t believe how swiftly things changed.

Here’s what I want you to take away from this story:

When everything seems to be falling apart, God might be setting you up for a breakthrough.

Keep the faith. Even when you’re sleeping in a hotel room instead of your own bed. Even when people you trust walk away. Even when the embarrassment feels unbearable.

God can still show up.

Sometimes His voice will come through a pastor. Sometimes through a gut feeling. Sometimes through an open door you thought was closed forever.

If you’re in a tough place right now, don’t give up. Pay attention to your spirit. Listen when your heart nudges you to do something out of the ordinary. Your miracle could be tied to one step of obedience.

God still works wonders. Don’t count yourself out. Keep the faith—your $100,000 moment might be just around the corner.

With love and joy,

Maryam 💛

Back to School Joy: A Heartfelt Poem from Our Beloved Principal

 

What a beautiful way to step into a brand-new school year! I couldn’t help but smile when I read the precious “Back to School” poem shared by my children’s amazing principal, Ms. Payton. Her words perfectly captured the magic, nerves, excitement, and joy that fill our homes the night before school starts again.

Here’s the heartwarming poem she shared with us:

“’Twas the Night Before School”

By Principal Payton

‘Twas the night before school, and all through the house,

Not a student was stirring—not even a mouse.

Backpacks were ready, all hung up with care,

With hopes that a great school year soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of learning danced in their heads.

Uniforms laid out, shoes by the door,

Breakfast plans ready—smooth mornings in store.

With bedtime arriving, no time for delay,

Tomorrow’s the start of a brand-new school day!

Get up bright and early, no moments to waste,

Brush teeth, eat breakfast—no need for haste.

No hoodies, no crocs, no open-toed shoes,

Just sneakers and smiles—no reason to snooze!

Be ready to listen, to think, and to grow,

The journey to greatness begins—let’s go!

So here’s to new friendships, and goals set with pride—

With Panther Pride spirit, we’ll all soar and rise!

With Love & Pride,

Principal Payton

This poem wasn’t just a rhyme—it was a warm hug from a leader who truly loves and believes in her students. As a mom, it’s comforting to know that the person guiding our children each day leads with heart, intention, and such joyful creativity.

Principal Payton reminded us that school is more than just rules, routines, and academics—it’s a place where dreams are planted, confidence is built, and friendships flourish. Her poem gently eased the nerves and brought excitement to our home. My children went to bed smiling, already looking forward to what lies ahead.

Here’s to a school year filled with learning, laughter, growth, and Panther Pride. Thank you, Principal Payton, for starting us off with so much love.

With joy,

Maryam 💛