No One is Coming to Certify You

I spent years waiting for someone to tell me I was doing it right.

That I was spiritual enough.
That I’d suffered enough.
That I’d earned the next level.

But the Tao doesn’t issue certificates.

There’s no robed elder to bless you.
No scroll to sign.

There is only this moment.
You.
And whatever sacred breath you take next.

You don’t need permission to change your life.

You need honesty.
And quiet.
And maybe a walk.

Consider this your certificate.