At the core of living an empowered life lies the fundamental belief that the universe is not indifferent to our existence. Rather, it is inherently friendly, offering us boundless opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. This paradigm shift in perception is pivotal, for it sets the stage for how we navigate the challenges and triumphs of our journey.

When we embrace the notion that the universe is benevolent, we unlock the potential to choose the meaning we assign to our experiences. Every setback becomes a stepping stone, every obstacle a chance to learn and grow. Instead of succumbing to despair in the face of adversity, we find strength in resilience, viewing challenges as opportunities for transformation.

Central to this empowering worldview is the recognition of our agency—the power to choose our responses to the circumstances of our lives. Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and renowned psychiatrist, encapsulated this truth eloquently in his seminal work, "Man's Search for Meaning." He wrote, "Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom."

Indeed, it is within this space of choice that our empowerment flourishes. We are not slaves to our circumstances or past traumas; rather, we are architects of our destiny, capable of reshaping our reality with every decision we make. Whether faced with adversity or abundance, we retain the power to choose our attitude, our actions, and ultimately, our destiny.

However, cultivating an empowering model of the world requires more than mere belief; it demands intentional practice and a commitment to self-awareness. We must continually examine our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors, discerning which ones align with our vision of empowerment and which ones hinder our progress.

Moreover, living an empowered life entails surrounding ourselves with a supportive community that shares our values and aspirations. By fostering connections with like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire us, we cultivate an environment conducive to growth and self-actualization.

In essence, choosing to live an empowered life is a conscious decision—a commitment to embrace the inherent goodness of the universe and the boundless potential within ourselves. It is a journey of self-discovery, self-mastery, and self-transcendence, guided by the unwavering belief that we possess the power to shape our reality and create a life of meaning and purpose.