Reflection on 48 Hours of Fasting

Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 9:14 am (Tulsa, OK)

Over the past 48 hours of fasting, two lessons have stood out:

1. Embracing Life's Trials as Part of a Greater Story
   I've come to see every challenge as a thread in the vast, beautiful story God is weaving—one where billions of journeys interlock. Each trial is not just an obstacle, but a meaningful part of a narrative far greater than myself. As the scriptures teach:

“All things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name's glory, saith the Lord.” (Doctrine & Covenants 98:3)
And as Paul wrote:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

2. From Scattered Passion to Focused, High-Leverage Action
   Fasting has helped me shift from chasing many things at once to thoughtfully choosing the few that matter most. It's not about doing more, but about doing the right things deeply and well—making each decision count and aiming for higher impact with each step.

3. Guarding the Gates of Genius: The Value of Focused Time
   Staying with Dr. Lael Alexander this week has instilled a profound lesson: every moment of someone like Lael's focused, creative time is invaluable. When someone possesses the capacity to solve significant scientific and technological problems, any interruption, however well-intentioned, diverts them from delivering solutions that can benefit humanity. My role, therefore, shifts towards becoming a more effective filter—sussing out and qualifying opportunities so that their genius can be directed towards creation and problem-solving. This not only accelerates progress but also supports their mission and, by extension, benefits many.

These realizations have brought both gratitude and clarity as I continue this journey.