Protected Journey: Eyes Wide Open

The water was murky that day off the coast of Sudan. Visibility maybe ten feet if I was lucky. My dive buddy signaled to turn back, but something pulled me forward—not recklessness, but intuition whispering that beauty waited beyond the clouded veil.

I'd learned early in my diving career that closing your eyes to uncertainty doesn't make danger disappear. But I'd also learned that fear shouldn't blind you to possibility. That dive, I discovered a field of soft coral I still dream about—purple and orange tendrils swaying like they were breathing with the current.

After our dives in Sudan, we ventured through Egypt’s bazaars, where I came across the ancient Hamsa hand. It’s symbolism teaches us something crucial about protection: it's not about shutting out the world. Look at its open palm—watchful, receptive, aware. The evil eye at its center doesn't close in fear; it stays vigilant.

"See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" gets twisted into willful ignorance. But the real wisdom? Keep your eyes, ears, and mouth OPEN to love, truth, and justice while staying protected from negativity that isn't yours to carry.

As you begin this year, you're navigating your own murky waters. Career changes. Relationship questions. Health concerns. The unknown stretches ahead, and perhaps… closing your eyes feels safer.

But here's what I've learned in 25 years of diving into both oceans and dreams: protection and openness aren't opposites. They're partners.

This month's Hamsa and evil eye themed jewelry remind you:

• Stay open to opportunities even when you can't see the full picture
• Trust your intuition while remaining grounded
• Protect your energy without building walls against joy

Your January Manifestation Practice:

Hold your Hamsa. Feel its weight. This isn't a shield to hide behind—it's a reminder that you can move through uncertainty with eyes wide open, protected not by ignorance but by awareness and intention.

Where in your life have you been closing your eyes when you need to stay present? Where have you confused protection with disconnection?

This month, practice moving forward with the Hamsa's open-palmed courage. See clearly. Hear truth. Speak your needs. Stay protected while remaining fully alive.

The most beautiful discoveries wait beyond the murky water—but only if you keep your eyes open.

Flow rather than force,
Szilvia