Do not be afraid

God says to you: "Do not be afraid of holiness; do not be afraid to aim high, to let yourself be loved and purified by God; do not be afraid to let yourself be guided by the Holy Spirit." 
-Pope Francis, general audience, Oct. 2, 2013

I was scared. When I was seven and scared of everyone (I was shy). When I was a teen and didn't know who I was. When I was first with my husband and didn't know where life was going. Every time we move (we're military). It's a chance to start over. It's also closing your eyes, falling back, and hoping someone catches you. New house, new town, different state, no local friends, no family, and the million things that need done. Optimistic phrases and smiles only cover the fear. 

Looking back- and I'm still fairly young- I see a pattern. When I took a deep breath and actually let it go...let myself fall back into complete darkness...when I stopped trying to do it myself.......I never fell. The rough times were necessary to make me the person I am today. I know there will be struggles in the future- I think a well-lived life will be filled with adversity.

Today I pray: I always, each and every single day, remember to take that deep breath, cross my arms, close my eyes, and fall back. Take the chance and trust God; open myself to receive the guidance He wants to give me. 

"I only see my goals, I don't believe in failure. 'Cause I know the smallest voices. They can make it major." - Lukas Graham

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I suggest turning up the volume. Very powerful.