Today I am thinking about what holds us back from doing some things in life, when the thoughts come into our mind or someone asks us to give of our time and talents. As I was reading some devotional material this past week, two words kept reappearing. Failure and Criticism. Two of the biggest fears we have in our daily lives, especially when we step out and try something new.
Isn’t it funny that these two fears really never go away? No matter how old we get or how much we mature and grow. We can overcome them at certain points in our lives, but then they show up again when our next challenge comes our way. If we really think about it, most failure is not fatal. Usually we actually grow from it.
Fear of these two looming dark clouds is really all part of our life’s journey. If we can only learn to accept it and not run from it, we will probably conquer the nasty feelings that accompany it all. Looking back at what we’ve already accomplished and overcome, we can subdue those anxious feelings.
An unknown poet wrote these words that I stumbled upon this week:
I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I couldn’t fail;
The same four walls of busywork were really more like a jail.
I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before,
But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.
I said it didn’t matter that I wasn’t doing much;
I said I didn’t care for things like dreams and goals and such.
I claimed to be so busy with the things inside my zone,
But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.
I couldn’t let my life go by just watching others win;
I held my breath and stepped outside and let the change begin.
I took a step, and with new strength I’d never felt before,
I kissed my comfort zone goodbye, then closed and locked the door.
If you are in a comfort zone, afraid to venture out.
Remember that all winners were at one time filled with doubt.
If you are anxious today, these are God’s words to you: “ Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10
Two of the organizations that I am involved in as a volunteer are always needing more help. If you have ever thought about being involved as a volunteer in one of these, please let them know. Giving of yourself and your time will bring blessings beyond measure.
Hospice of Murray County in Slayton needs volunteers in the Hospice House to clean, decorate, help prepare meals, etc. They are also looking for those who would be willing to visit Hospice patients who reside in the local nursing homes. Interested? Contact Mary Baune, 507-836-8114.
Pink Ladies of Fulda is another group that would covet your membership and participation. They meet once a month about ten times a year, and a booklet is made to form different committees throughout the months for volunteering at Maple Lawn Senior Care in Fulda. These groups of ladies who volunteer each month are very willing to exchange with others who can’t fulfill their monthly commitment. Everybody just helps each other to fulfill the time and actions needed to give to the residents. Because many of the original members are getting older or have passed, younger members are needed to keep this worthwhile organization working smoothly. If you are interested, please contact either Karen Ommen (425-2830) or Marlys Evers (507-220-5166). These gals are co-presidents this year and would welcome your call.
I hope your first week of 2018 held some surprise blessings! God bless.
lbeerman68@gmail.com
