What I think has replaced that is a fear of missing out. And I'm not necessarily talking about missing out on marriage or children, I think it's bigger than all of that. I don't want to miss out on a life I might have had just because I was too afraid to take a chance or too afraid to do the work. Living that way is no kind of life. I don't mean that I'm going to start doing things without thinking them through, but if my fear of what might happen is the only thing that's holding me back, then maybe that's the thing I should take on. Does this make any sense at all?
I just don't want to get to the end of my life and be left with nothing but "what if's." I've never been big on stewing over my regrets, but I just feel that if I don't start living my life now, when is that going to happen? I don't want to miss out on a life that was bigger than my wildest dreams simply because I didn't try.
I can totally relate to this. With all of the drama surrounding my acceptance to law school, people have told me I should give up. It's too hard. The problem with that is just because it is hard doesn't mean it is not right. Sometimes you have to put in the work and not give up on your dreams regardless of what it takes. One of my friends applied to medical school three times before he got in. He is now a pediatric oncologist at Duke. He reminds me often to put in the work. Go get 'em, Katie!
ReplyDeleteSometimes you have to do the hard things. They make not change the world, but they make you stronger. Impossible things happen all the time. I hope that law school is one of those things for you.
DeleteIt makes perfect sense. I can let fear rule the day if I'm not careful. I've memorized that tiny little scripture that says, 'When I am afraid I put my trust in You." As soon as I feel fear creeping in I say it as many times as I need to, which is sometimes a lot : ) I don't think life always comes to us...sometimes we have to go after it, and that takes courage. I also think regret may be greater in the 'not trying' than in the 'not getting'. Don't give up on your dreams!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite "do not fear" Scripture is Psalm 27. I have it pinned up next to my desk so that I have to see it and remember it often. I agree with you on regret being greater when we don't try than when we don't get!
DeleteI've been feeling that fear has ruled too long and it's time to live life to the fullest as I'm on my way to 40. Love what Jess and Joyce shared. I've been focusing on not letting fear rule my decisions this year. So far so good! Keep on keepin' on :)
ReplyDeleteI hope that your journey is incredible, Jhona! Learning to let go of the fear is the best decision you can ever make for yourself!
DeleteGood for you Katie! I admire a strong woman who can use each day for good, and for enjoyment! Keep that mindset - and keep moving forward!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marla!
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