On Emmaus Road

“Beginnings are scary. Endings are usually sad. But it’s the middle that counts the most. You need to remember that when you find yourself at the beginning. Just give hope a chance to float up, and it will too.”

~ Hope Floats

One week in and I’m already reminded of how much I dislike new things. I’m a fan of things being how they have always been, unless the new somehow is better in every aspect.

I dread walking into new situations or having to make small talk with people I’m just meeting. I think that might surprise some of you who I know outside of the internet. I know I can come across as someone who is confident in talking with anyone and isn’t afraid to step up to a challenge. But honest truth, I fight through each and everyone of those situations. I would much rather let someone do the talking and kinda float in the background.

This really became apparent to me as I am currently preparing to meet a group of new people this week. My first thoughts were the dread of the small talk I was going to have to make, and all those self-conscious thoughts that are sure to invade my head when I enter the room. What do they think of me? Did that sound stupid? Do they like me? Do I like them? Do I really care what they think?

I really had to spend some time this week thinking through why I felt that way and how I could look at new things differently. I came up with a few; I can view new things as a chance to grow in uncomfortable situations. They are also an opportunity to strengthen my relationship with God. The truth of the matter is that He will be with me in that new situation. His opinion is the one I care about. An He is the one who lead me into this new situation to begin with.

So, I guess at the end of week one I’ve learned that beginnings “new things” are scary to me. That I have to make sure I keep my eyes focused on the right things. And that even if something is scary God is right there beside me.

Did you pick a word for the year? If you have, leave it in the comments below and let’s cheer each other on.

To Everything There Is A Season…

Kiley Ann