Yesterday, I did something completely out of character. At 5:30 a.m., I woke with an overwhelming urge to go to the beach and watch the sunrise—one last time before this chapter of my life closes.

If you know me, you know I’m not a morning person. The only things that usually get me out of bed that early are international flights or hotel breakfasts. But this felt different. Something was calling me. And for once, I listened.

I’m glad I did.

For over an hour, I sat alone on the sand, recording a time lapse as the sun rose over the horizon. It was the first moment I’d taken for myself since walking out of the office for the last time.

I didn’t cry. I didn’t feel sad.

Instead, I felt excited. Inspired. At peace.

I planted the camera in the sand and let myself fully experience the moment. The quiet beach before dawn reminded me just how vast—and yet connected—the world truly is. As I sat there waiting for the light, billions of people were already in motion: commuting, working, learning, living their lives.

And there I was. Still. Waiting for the light to come in.

But something else became clear as the sky brightened.
The light within me is shining brighter than it has in years.

I felt a renewed sense of optimism about the world and a deeper understanding of how connected we all are—if only we pause long enough to notice. To let the light in.

Here’s to chasing the light—around the world, and within.