I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today. William Allen White
Every once in a while someone will comment to me on how wonderful my life must be and I have to admit, yes, I love everything I’m doing now, and that said, I appreciate all that has gone before....
Now in saying this, make no mistake, I have had my share of heartaches and I, like everyone else, have a long list of worries, wishes, sorrows, hurts, regrets, aches and pains. Life is what it is and I’m convinced that there is no way around those sometimes nagging worries or real/unreal fears we all experience.
I remember years ago going through an incredibly difficult time. For some reason (um–stress) I landed flat-on-my-back in bed for three weeks, and then spent at least two years struggling to even go to the grocery store by myself. This inability to get out and about was irrational, frustrating, and scary as I had absolutely no idea what was “wrong” with me.
During this period of time most of my days were filled with fears within, and fears without. Every day was an uphill struggle. So yes, I am well acquainted with these demons.
Honestly, this irrational fear was a huge shock to my system. Not only to my private and independent nature, but let’s face it, to my ego. Sometimes I would get so angry and frustrated with myself. During those lonely days one lesson I learned was that anger can work for you, especially in overcoming fears. Get mad enough and you’ll be able to use the adrenaline and mental willpower to successfully accomplish what needs to be done.
Slowly, and many times tearfully, I learned that although I may be uncomfortable in a given situation, I can make it through. Small victory built upon small victory, and slowly the story changed. Learning to trust and reach out to others for support and becoming “human” in my struggles was a humbling task. Over time I’ve learned another of life’s most valuable lessons: I can, with the help of God and friends, turn my weakness into strengths.
And so, today as I jet around the globe following my children to places far and wide, know that I have my ups and downs, joys and sorrows, struggles and victories, and that through it all, life is very good!
You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do. Eleanor Roosevelt
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