As I was walking through the Ramesseum on the West Bank in Luxor, by now, you know that Luxor is a second home to me, I found myself drawn to the remnants of what appears to be the foot of a colossal statue. A leftover from a massive depiction of Ramses II, considered one of the most powerful kings of the New Kingdom in ancient Egyptian history.

As I continued walking through the temple, I began to notice symbols, symbols that, even if I cannot read them, I somehow feel. I know what they mean, not through the mind yet, but through the heart and soul.

The walls are embroidered with beautiful depictions of the Tree of Life, alongside an array of goddesses and gods blessing and protecting the king.

In every hall of the temple, there are signs of protection everywhere.

And it made me wonder: such a massive, advanced civilization, what were they so afraid of?

With some research, I realized that protection was one of the most sustaining symbols across every ancient civilization. It is something we can still see the remnants of today.

So the question remains, what were they protecting themselves from?

Is it because evil does exist, and the more evolved you become, the more aware you are, the more vividly you see it?
Or was it the fear of the unknown?

As humans, we fear uncertainty. And then comes Sufi Islam to tell us that uncertainty is the very core of belief, that this is where serenity lies, where surrender lives. I am not saying this is a truth everyone must subscribe to, but it is the truth I find the most comfort in.

So when we see evil unfolding with such vividness and clarity, let us rest assured that we are evolving, and that our awareness is being sharpened.

And the protection of our mind, body, heart, and soul should be our highest priority.

So look away, my friends and family. Look away. No good comes from seeing what you already know in your heart. Sometimes this kind of assertiveness does nothing but break your heart.

But if you insist, then you will know that when the heart breaks, this is when the light gets in.

Brace yourself. Surround yourself with safety.

Reaffirm:
I am safe in my heart.
I am safe in my body.
I am safe in my home.
I am safe in my country.

There is magic in this land. I feel it in my bones, and I hope you feel it too.

So much love,
JDV