Let Your Compass Lead You Through the Storm

Let me tell you a story.  

Even as a child, my mother instilled in me a strong moral compass. She used to say, "No matter how dark the road, your integrity will be the lamp unto your feet." And while her words have held true, I must also admit—walking that road hasn't always been easy.  

Many people speak of the trauma they've faced—whether in their personal lives, through heartbreak or family struggles, or in their careers, where being overlooked, disrespected, or othered cuts deeper than most realise. In my journey, both personally and professionally, I have experienced the sting of racism, exclusion, and bias. I have walked into rooms where I was the only one who looked like me, thought like me, or refused to bend my backbone to please others.

You see, we are not just who we think we are—we are also who the world perceives us to be. And when you're seen as different, as 'other', the world can be a cold and unwelcoming place. Especially when you choose to stand by your values.  

There was a time, about a decade ago, when I seriously considered giving up my moral compass. Not because I lost faith,but because the pressure to conform was so immense. I thought, maybe if I softened my truth, I'd be accepted more, tolerated more, promoted more.

Now, don't get me wrong—flexibility is smart. Adaptability is essential. But your guiding light? That should never change.  

I've had to wrestle with this many times. I've been in workplaces where my integrity became a threat. Where speaking up meant isolation. Where keeping silent would have made life easier. But still, I chose to stand. It wasn't always glamorous. I've lost opportunities, friends, even roles. But I've never lost myself.

And now, nearly 50 years on, I can say with confidence: those difficult experiences haven't broken me. They've made me stronger. They've helped me build a business rooted in purpose, guided by peace, and aligned with values that don't shift with the wind.

Let me give you one example. Some time ago, I was surrounded by racism, subtle and overt. The kind of workplace where smiles hid daggers, where the supposed oppressed actually were the oppressor, and whispers cut deeper than shouts. It was painful. But I didn't give in. I stayed the course. And in time, I realised something powerful—my compass had helped me separate the lamb from the wolf, the wheat from the chaff.  

I now know: not everyone who speaks of "kindness", "ancestral powers", or "the Lord" walks in truth. And not everyone who calls themselves a "leader" deserves your following. They shall be known by their fruits.  

So here's what I've learnt—control what you can control. Be wise. Be adaptable. But never let go of your moral compass. It may not always bring applause, but it will always bring peace.  

If it worked for me, I believe it can work for you too.  

Keep shining wherever you are. Your light is needed. And your truth—your unwavering truth—is your greatest strength.

• Jessica S Gray

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