Me by Ricky Martin

February 2, 2001

As a huge fan of Ricky Martin in the late 90s, during the "Living LaVida Loca" era, I was compelled to read his memoir.  While it was interesting to read about his life (i.e., his early career/childhood with the band Menudo, rise to international stardom, fame, volunteer work in India & Thailand, fatherhood and his homosexuality), his spiritual journey was the core of this book.  He acknowledges the power of hope, faith and love throughout the book.

As I often struggle with patience in life's waiting game (in regards to pinacle life events such as marriage and motherhood), the follow passage deeply moved me:
" In my life there was a moment when the stars aligned perfectly and everything was in the exact spot where it needed to be so I could reach the goal I'd always dreamed of ,and beyond.  And if I learned anything in the process, it is that when your moment finally arrives, you can't allow yourself to get held up looking back.  You have to work tirelessly, give it your all and dedicate your heart and soul to actualize the blessing that has been given to you."
This passage reflects upon faith, hope, timing/destiny and gratitude, not taking one's blessing for granted.

Following the peak of stardom, he went to India where he spent time in an ashram learning to meditate which deepened his spiritual practice. 
"Life's most valuable lessons are learned in absolute silence.  It is when we are deep in the silence that we have the ability to think about and connect with our intimate nature, our spiritual being."

He beautifully describes his dreams to become a father:
"Sooner or later we reach a point when we aspire to do more with our lives.  We begin to realize that it is no longer enough to simply exist in the world, and we feel the need to transcend who we are to become something greater.  For me that aspiration manifested itself in my desire to become a father... I always knew I was destined to be a father...I simply felt that my moment had arrived and faced it when I knew I was ready.  There are many people who are afraid to be parents, and I can honestly say it never worried me at all."  to the moment when his dreams came true "I will never forget the moment that each of them (his twin boys) looked in my eyes for the very first time.  Those were the most precious moments in my entire life.  The were OUR moments."

 I was inspired by his words throughout the book since they resonated his peace and genuine gratitude for life's blessings, a place in life achieved through his spiritual journey.