The First Light: A Journey Into Self

We are thrilled to announce that creation has begun on the first level of stained glass for the Sphere of Light.

Above, you’ll see the latest design rendering for the Unity section of this level.

This first level marks the start of a powerful journey—one that begins with the individual. We all enter the world fragile, curious, and full of potential. The first floor, known as the “Me” Level, honors this deeply personal stage of life: a time of growth, discovery, and the forging of identity.

Upon ascending from the subterranean level, visitors will step into a space that reflects the adolescent journey, inspired by the Seven Pillars of Humanity. Each of the seven sections on this level explores a virtue that shapes us as we grow into ourselves:

Unity

From the moment we are born, we belong to something greater. Our lives begin in unity—connected to family, community, and the human spirit.

Love

At home, we learn our first lessons in love. Through connection and care, we build emotional foundations that guide us throughout life.

Faith

As we seek meaning, we begin to develop beliefs—initially borrowed, but eventually our own. True faith is rooted in personal truth and trust in the good.

Courage

When life challenges us, courage takes form. It's not instinctual—it’s earned through experience, struggle, and the will to rise with grace.

Knowledge

Every experience brings new understanding. With humility and curiosity, we learn from our history and begin to shape the way we see the world.

Creativity

Knowledge fuels imagination. Through play, experimentation, and joy, we begin shaping our world and finding our voice.

Freedom

As adolescence comes to a close, we begin to act. We test our ideas, express ourselves, and take our place in the world with greater independence.

This floor is a celebration of identity—the light within each of us as we begin to explore who we are. It's about the formative experiences that define our values, inspire our dreams, and shape the way we see ourselves.

In a world that often pulls us in many directions, coming home to the self is a courageous act. The stained glass on this level doesn’t just reflect light—it reflects stories: real people on a journey to understand themselves and their place in the world.

This is where the journey begins—with you.

Until Next Time,

• Roots of Humanity