Lauren and I have been watching Season 2 of the Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon.

And I'll level with you.  It’s not my cup of tea.

During the most recent episode, I started daydreaming.

As I slipped deeper & deeper into my reverie, I found myself perched on a throne, clasping a sword and keeping a beady eye on my loyal subjects. 

I had become Tom Grundy, First of His Name, King of the Daily Email, Sultan of Subscribers, His Fully Coach-Mad Excellency.

A young warrior approached me.

She kneeled before me and spoketh thus:

Hark Your Royal Highness. I cometh before you seeking guidance and advice. 

I replied:  

What troubleth you, young swordswoman?

To which she confessed:

One day, many moons from now, I would like to rule over the Land of the Busy Bees whilst casting many spells, dwelling in a magnificent castle, joy-riding my dragon and chomping on extravagant feasts galore. 

Yet I do worry.  My heart is burdened with doubts and uncertainties.

I fear my path may be filled with treacherous obstacles, cunning adversaries, back-stabbing and castle politics.

I wonder if it's worth sacrificing the simpler joys of life for status and grandeur.

And doubts linger that true fulfilment doth lie beyond the realm of power and prestige.

Could you enlighten me, oh mighty King?  Am I sipping from the cup of the poisoned Weirwood Tree?  I doth humbly seek your counsel.

I paused, breathed deeply and began my reply:

Kneel no more, young warrior.  You have come to the right place.  

I can tell the burdens of sovereignty weigh heavy on…

Suddenly I awoke from my daydream with a jolt. 

An ad break had started. 

I glanced at the TV and Bella Hadid glanced back at me, trying to sell me Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur.

The spell was broken.  My daydream was over.

But still…

I wonder what advice I would’ve given that plucky young warrior if Bella Hadid hadn’t rudely interrupted me.

I probably would’ve told her that her doubts are entirely natural and her questions had no answer.

So offering advice I would not dare.

Instead, I would help her see that the right answer is the answer that’s right for her.  And that by following her heart, she’ll find the path that’s right for her too.

And who knows.  Maybe she’ll ascend the throne, gouging my eyes out and chopping off my head in the process.

Or maybe she’ll fly home to her family castle and live a life of quiet solitude and reflection.

It matters not a jot.  

For in that moment, she'll be where she rightfully belongs.  

That’s it for today.

 - Tom

p.s. if you'd like support finding your path and pursuing your own dreams, hearken thus with haste:

https://waitinglist.followingfulfilment.com