Is Manifestation Real?

I believe in manifestation. I’ve seen it work in my own life—sometimes in quiet, unexpected ways and sometimes in big, breathtaking ones. But lately, I’ve been sitting with a harder question: If manifestation is real, then what about all the people who are suffering? If I believe manifestation is real, does that mean they somehow created or deserved their pain?

That idea doesn’t sit right with me. It never has.

Manifestation can be real, but it’s not a magic spell. It doesn’t mean simply wishing for something and having it fall from the sky. Instead, it involves aligning your thoughts, energy, and actions with the experiences you want. This requires being open to new possibilities, showing up for yourself, and taking steps that lead you toward a life that feels aligned with your desires.

But manifestation doesn’t cancel out reality. It doesn’t erase systemic injustice or trauma. People are living through poverty, war, discrimination, illness, and unimaginable loss, and not because they “didn’t think positively enough.” That’s not truth. That’s spiritual bypassing dressed up in glitter.

We also have to talk about privilege. Some people can manifest things more easily because they have access to support, safety, and resources. When your basic needs are met, you have more space to dream. That doesn’t mean manifestation isn’t real, it just means the playing field isn’t equal.

So how do I hold both?

I let my belief in manifestation deepen my compassion. I trust in my own ability to create change in my life, and I use that belief to stay hopeful. But I never let it blind me to the suffering of others. I never use it as a reason to look away. If anything, it makes me want to give more, love more, and lift others higher.

Manifestation, at its best, isn’t perfection or pretending. It’s presence, trust, and responsibility. It’s showing up for yourself and for the world.