Right on Time for Hope

Even when I’m behind, joy still finds me. And sometimes, it comes with free batteries.

Not on Schedule, But Right Where I Needed to Be

I didn’t wake up with sparkle in my soul.

I woke up late. Again.

The kind of late where I stare at my reflection and wonder if my morning routine has quietly given up on me. I aim to leave by 6:30 a.m., but my body has been whispering for more rest lately. Maybe it’s physical. Maybe it’s emotional. Either way, my mornings feel heavier, slower, harder to push through.

Still, I got up.

Still, I showed up.

And by the time the night ended—after delays, detours, and dancing with 22,000 people—I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

When the Itinerary Takes the Wheel

The plan was to spend the morning finalizing work reports.

What I did instead? Helped my friend by putting together our South Korea itinerary—something I’d already submitted to work security, but she needed hers done to apply for her work report. I figured I’d knock it out quickly and return to my actual tasks.

Spoiler: I got called out by my boss for not having the reports ready on time.

She graciously reminded me to ask for the necessary information earlier next time. No drama, no yelling—just grace and accountability. It stung, but it was deserved.

“Let all things be done decently and in order.” – 1 Corinthians 14:40

Sometimes our hearts are in the right place—but our task list isn’t.

Of Oranges, Jerky, and Unexpected Joy

Later that morning, I was in the breakroom searching for oranges and instead stumbled into a conversation that spiraled beautifully—from my recent trip to Australia, to my upcoming South Korea journey, and finally to the real reason I’m even making the trip: BTS.

“Do you know anyone in Korea?”

“Nope. Just BTS.”

Cue laughter.

Also, I mentioned I was heading to J-Hope’s concert that night. That part wasn’t surprising. Real ARMYs know—BTS isn’t just K-pop. They’re something else entirely. Something more.

Jerky with Intention, Parking with Strategy

After work, I changed into my BTS hoodie and tee, packed my ARMY bomb, and picked up a promised gift: kangaroo jerky for my friend TJ. I’d told him I’d bring some back from Australia, and I kept my word.

We parked at his place, not just to dodge $80 stadium parking fees (because wisdom), but to catch up briefly before heading out.

Friendship, food, and free parking—three essential concert prep rituals.

Concert Vibes: The Director’s Lounge Misadventure

We arrived at BMO via train, grabbed hot dogs (thanks, Ate!), and then… stood in the wrong line. For an hour.

Director’s Lounge. Fancy. Mysterious. Not ours.

Eventually, we redirected to the correct entrance—and that line flew. We got to our seats on time, right before the lights dimmed and the roar of 22,000 voices rose.

“God is never late, but rarely early.” – Joyce Meyer

And on this night? He was right on time.

Hope on the Stage: A Testimony in Dance and Devotion

J-Hope came out at 8:13 p.m., and from the moment he stepped on stage, joy danced with us.

He performed:

Tracks from his Hope on the Street album Fan favorites like “Just Dance” and “Mic Drop” from Love Yourself Songs from Hope World Collaborations: “I Wonder” (with Jungkook), “Sweet Dreams” (with Miguel, live!), “Future,” and the final encore—“Neuron.”

And then came the moment that felt personal:

“LA is my second home.”

The stadium exploded.

Because it’s true. BTS has been connected to LA since 2014. From filming here as rookies to selling out arenas as global artists, this city has watched them grow. And now? J-Hope filled a 22,000+ seat stadium solo. That’s not hype. That’s history.

“A person’s gift opens doors for him.” – Proverbs 18:16

And J-Hope’s gift? It’s not just talent. It’s sincerity, soul, and relentless excellence.

ARMY Kindness in Six Little Batteries

While waiting earlier, an ARMY stranger handed me six free batteries for my lightstick. No expectations. Just kindness.

“Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38

In that moment, I felt something sacred—like joy in motion. That’s the heart of ARMY: give, glow, repeat.

Soul Insights

A Late Start and a Glorious Finish

1. It’s Okay to Start Slow

Not every day begins with energy. But showing up—groggy, grumpy, or grateful—is still a victory.

2. Grace Still Finds Me

Even when I mess up the order of priorities, grace smooths over the cracks. God’s timeline can work through my tangled one.

3. Joy Comes Through People

Whether it’s Ate’s hot dogs, TJ’s generosity, or battery angel ARMYs—God often sends joy wrapped in human form.

4. J-Hope’s Journey Mirrors Our Own

From humble beginnings to a sold-out stadium, his story reminds me that passion, preparation, and perseverance matter.

5. Worship Can Look Like a Lightstick

Praise doesn’t always wear a choir robe. Sometimes, it wears a hoodie and sings along with 22,000 hearts.

Final Thoughts: I Wasn’t On Time—But Joy Was

I didn’t start the day glowing.

I started late.

I stumbled.

But joy?

Joy found me. And brought friends, free batteries, and a full heart.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” – Psalm 37:23

So if your day starts late or messy, don’t count it out.

You might just be right on time… for joy.

Your Turn

Have you ever experienced joy when everything seemed off schedule?

I’d love to hear your story—drop it in the comments below.

Soul Path Insights