Lifeboat- How I played the game of life!

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Have you ever played Lifeboat? It’s more than just a game—it’s a mirror, revealing pieces of us we might otherwise overlook.

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Recently, I found myself engaged in the game "Lifeboat," where five players must convince one another why they deserve one of only two life-saving spots. The game becomes deeply personal, as each participant is given three minutes to share their story, making their case to the group.

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Listening to my fellow players’ stories was both humbling and moving. One shared her journey as a mother to a special-needs child, uncertain if her child could cope without her. Another spoke about caring for two sets of ailing parents, the sole anchor for her family. A gentleman revealed that his wife and mother had already suffered so much loss. Each story touched me in profound ways, and they all received my vote.

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When my turn came, I found myself reflecting on my life and my role within it. I realized that, while my family would miss me, they’d carry on. My son, even at nine, was well cared for by his father, and my parents would continue with the strength they’d always had. With this mindset, I chose not to fight for my place, believing others had greater reasons to live. I stepped back, offering my seat without hesitation and ending my plea within a minute. Despite encouragement from the group to share more, I felt I’d said all I needed to say.

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When the game concluded, a fellow player turned to me with words I’ll never forget: “Zarine, I wanted to know you more. I wanted to be on your team because I felt you had an incredible story to share. By not sharing, I felt robbed of the honor of knowing you better.”

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Those words struck me deeply, bringing three revelations I hadn't considered:

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1. The Hidden Shadow of Sacrifice?

?? I’d always seen sacrifice as a virtue, an act of strength. But at that moment, I realized that, in stepping back without a fight, I hadn’t been noble—I’d been hiding. Sacrifice can be beautiful, but this was avoidance. In not standing up for myself, I was retreating from life, letting the shadow of sacrifice become an excuse. This was my wake-up call: strength isn’t always quiet or in the background. Sometimes, strength needs a voice.

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2. Failing to Own My Value?

?? I hadn’t taken pride in the life I’d built, or the vision I’m creating for a community rooted in heart-centered business and living. By not claiming a spot on that lifeboat, I disregarded my worth—the family, friends, business, and dreams that only I can uniquely nurture. This experience forced me to confront why I was shrinking myself in my own eyes, and to realize it’s time I embrace my contributions, big and small.

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3. Denying the World My Story?

?? By keeping my story to myself, I was unknowingly robbing others of the insights and lessons my journey has brought. I’ve always chosen to live by my own rules, to listen to my heart and embrace my faith, even when it meant going against the norm. But by not speaking my truth, I was neglecting this path and withholding it from others who might learn from it. I have a unique life, and if I’m not sharing that gift, I’m not truly grateful for it.

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How you do anything is how you do everything. And from this moment forward, I promise to claim my space in this world, unapologetically.