“Every time you let go of something limiting, you create space for something better.” Stephen C. Paul (Photo by Sally Taylor)
I was born a Girl Scout.
It’s been second nature to live by the organization’s motto “Be prepared.”
I have a Plan B and C and D, as well as an emergency plan. I’ve made responsible decisions as far back as I can remember.
That’s why I ignored recurring thoughts about canceling my certification as a Zumba Fitness Instructor. Why? You got it. It’s my financial backup plan, just in case.
Just like in the past when I turned in job applications to places I didn’t want to work, just in case I didn’t get the job I did want.
And I stored furniture and kept clothing I wanted to give away, just in case I couldn’t afford to buy new.
I can list example after example of times I was too afraid to let go, but labeled it being responsible.
When the place I taught Zumba Fitness closed its doors, I knew I didn’t want to teach any longer. Instead of regarding that, I spent hours and days inquiring about the half a dozen Zumba Fitness opportunities in my inbox. I sent emails, dropped off applications, and interviewed at a couple of fitness centers.
I was afraid to admit I only wanted one plan, to write full time.
It took a while, but eight months ago I stopped turning in job applications other than ones for writing. I gave away all the furniture in storage. For the first time ever, the only clothes in my closet are ones I wear.
That leaves cancelling my certification, which I’m doing this week.
I’m tired of saying, “Just in case God isn’t trustworthy, just in case I need to do it on my own, just in case the dream He gave me doesn’t work out …”
Are your backup plans grounded, or simply a reaction to fear?
WRite wHere I’m supposed to be – Long ago, when I started on this writing path, I asked an artist friend for the best advice she could give. She said, “Don’t compromise and give into the belief that writing may not work out. Work at it like it’s all you’ve got, like it has to work, and it will.”
On the side: A big thanks to friend, fellow Troop 84 member, and photographer Sally Taylor of Charleston, S.C. Sally was gracious in granting permission to use her photo of badges from our days in Girl Scouts.
This is a great story to remind us of those things we save \”just in case\” and for the back up plans B, C, or D, the specialties we offer just in case the market drops out of one area ( eggs in one basket, etc) Trusting God for the direction is so bold and yet so simple. Thanks for the advice. By the way you are a great Zumba Fitness instructor. There just seems to be so many these days.
Thanks, Joel. I loved teaching Zumba during that season but I knew I was supposed to let it go sooner than I was willing. Trusting God is bold and some days, I just don\’t think i have enough courage to do it, which is ridiculous because self-reliance is a whole lot riskier!
For your courage to Trust God is a great example, because most of us, are ready with the Just In Case scenarios, as if God was not in charge already. Isn\’t that weird.
Very weird but I think it\’s the human condition. Still mulling over your words, \”Trusting God for the direction is so bold.\” I like the word bold.
What a thought-provoking article! I shared it on FB. And there are several people I\’m going to share it with as well. Thanks for writing this, Kim.
Thanks for sharing, Cynthia. I love that you think it\’s worth passing along!
If I have learned anything in my 26 (almost 27, yowza!) years of life…is that God is faithful. Trusting in Him, in His plan, in His time is probably the hardest task of life. I have to remind myself daily that everything is His, Matthew 6:25-27:
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?\”
God will provide. You are using the talent He gave you. Keep on writing 🙂
Thank you so much, Jessica. You\’re wise beyond your years … it\’s taken me much longer to trust in that way. Keep writing also – you\’re good!
Once again, something that we can all take to heart!
Thanks, Susan. I love when you stop by to comment.