We pass corners all the time. We lean on them. We put stuff on them. We run into them. Just another right angle in our lives. So why do they seem scarier when we turn one?
When we are young, we crave adventure. We tingle with our shoulders erect, wide-eyed in anticipation, practically running towards the unknown. Nothing’s too intimidating through a naïve view. Boldly we tread on unsteady slippery terrain as some events work in our favor, some not. We don’t mind though, because we can always try something else.
As we get a little older; however, the thought becomes more about, ‘what now’? It’s not that we don’t still like surprises and challenges, but usually, it’s not just about us now. We have people depending on us and obligations defining us that narrow the room for errors. What if I’m not successful? What if I let the ones leaning on me down? What if I find myself even older and in financial distress?
It’s still just turning a corner, trying something new. The fear seems to be more about feeling trapped into our present state than worrying about a new adventure. We get to a place where we perceive where others feel we belong. We lose the hunger for new stimulation as if it were inappropriate or lavish. Everyone has the right to start over and to have the opportunity to redefine who they are. Yet, at some point, we hesitate.
Fear it not, but embrace it. If it is you, be tenacious and chase it with the strength you displayed in more youthful years. If it is someone close to you, help to clear the path and let him/her feel the warmth of you walking beside and lending support. Know that God is with you, that you possess what you need, and trust that the people you share life’s journey with will hold you up.
So, what’s around this corner? Go find out! Enjoy it! If you fall in a pothole, make sure you have a LifeGuard button. When you get hoisted out, go seek it again.
cmtreadway 