I’ve made my way from New York to Georgia as part of a journey called Walk Across America, aiming to accumulate a million steps to support Project HOOD’s Center for Leadership and Economic Opportunity in Chicago.
Now that it’s New Year’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on what our country needs as we head into 2026.
Throughout my experiences, I’ve seen courageous voices rise in the hip-hop scene, pop culture, and even among everyday folks. They’ve faced fierce criticism just for expressing their beliefs.
Take Justin Bateman, who strayed from typical political discourse in California. Azealia Banks has staunchly defended Israel, and artists like Nicki Minaj have encountered backlash for sharing their views on faith, family, and mainstream narratives.
Although I know there are so many voices out there, we need more individuals to step up, refuse to remain silent, and firmly stand by principles rooted in Judeo-Christian values. This boldness is a sign that America is waking up; people are weary of being manipulated and are ready to think independently.
But it’s not just about celebrities. Recently, I had the privilege of walking with Wu Wenyuan in Athens, Georgia, alongside my friend and fellow pastor Sean Seay. Wenyuan, an immigrant, is the Executive Director of the California Foundation for Equal Rights (CFER), advocating for equal rights, merit-based policies, and parental rights.
As we walked, I was struck by her embodiment of the American spirit. She’s a believer who speaks passionately about individuality and has been a vocal advocate for years.
This, I think, is where true freedom begins—with our thought processes. Our ability to think is a divine gift. God didn’t make us to be mindless copies of each other; instead, we’re meant to be individuals capable of reasoning and seeking out truth. Proverbs reminds us, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” What we allow into our minds is crucial—it shapes our lives and destiny.
Yet, there’s often pressure to conform. If you don’t, you might face accusations of racism or worse. It’s a dilemma: as the state loses power, individual autonomy diminishes. Are we, in some way, neglecting the gifts we’ve received as Americans?
Next year, let’s not shy away from diverging from the mainstream. If your beliefs—rooted in faith and personal experience—don’t align with popular opinion, hold your ground. This isn’t rebellion; it’s our duty.
I’ve witnessed this in various forms. If someone walks away from you for your voting choices or Biblical beliefs, then they weren’t a true friend. Genuine connections can withstand honest disagreements. It’s important to stand firm in your beliefs and in what God prompts you to do.
As I continue my journey, I find hope in meeting Americans from diverse backgrounds. Everyone seems eager for authenticity, rejecting groupthink in favor of individual convictions.
This year, choose to think for yourself. Read broadly, pray earnestly, and listen to different perspectives, but ultimately base your decisions on truth and values.
Let’s strive to make 2026 a year where more people stand up for what’s right. Courage in the face of adversity is commendable, especially when it’s about rebuilding and restoring this nation.
After all, extraordinary change often comes from ordinary individuals who dare to use their God-given intellect.
