Schools around here are back in session–or soon will be. Kids of all ages, along with 
adults of all ages, are trekking back, or maybe for the first time.
Education is a wonderful thing. We say that all the time, don't we? And it's true.
Still, it takes courage to take that first step, whether you're a first-grader or an adult first-timer who's been away from school for a long time. There's a saying that goes something like this, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Beginnings are like that. The "first step" is the hardest. Each one that follows feels easier.
That truth applies, even when we're beginning a new way of doing things in our personal lives. What we know always feels more comfortable and safe than stepping off into the unknown.
Every one of us has "been there, done that" at least a couple of times. We all know that sinking feeling, that self-doubt that we can handle what's ahead. What to do?
One simple tactic is to change the way we think and hang a new label on what we're feeling. Instead of "fear" and "discomfort," we can call it "excitement." After all, can't you remember times when you felt excited and you had those same butterflies? Me, too.
So if you're stepping off into the unknown–or your children are–here's a benediction on your week and for this new undertaking. We sang it at church today. First our pastor sang it to us, all of us standing. Then each side turned to face the other and we sang it together, each side to the other side. How lovely to sing these words to the smiling folks facing us!
So I "sing" it to you, with all my best wishes.
As you go on your way may Christ go with you,
May He go before you to show you the way,
May He go behind you to encourage you,
Beside you to befriend you,
Above you to watch over,
Within you to give you peace.
God bless you, whoever you are–and thanks for taking time to read this blog now and then,
Lenore
Question for you: What new activities are you–or a family member–undertaking?
Leave a Reply