Musings by Melinda

Abby Sunderland, attempted to sail around the world in 2010 - became youngest person to sail solo around Cape Horn

(Source: womenoffaith.com)

Those very wise words were spoken this past Sunday by Pastor Danny Chambers during his sermon at the Oasis Church.  It seems to be a recurring theme for me this year, and it all started on January 1.

I decided my New Year’s Resolution this year would be a simple one, no more than two words (much easier to remember) – No Fear.  I was going to try my darndest not to let what could be get in the way of finding out what will be.  It hasn’t been easy, and I have faltered from time to time this year, but I know I would not have been able to survive my first year living a new life in a new city if I didn’t repeat those words as often as needed.  I wouldn’t have attended that networking lunch where I first met the PR professionals who are now my coworkers.  I wouldn’t have gone to a happy hour with a new friend and met a whole group of amazing people who are becoming my Nashville family.  And I definitely wouldn’t have been front and center to see the one and only Reba McEntire walk the red carpet for her induction ceremony at the Country Music Hall of Fame (ah-mazing!!)!

We all do it.  Anytime something scary comes up we automatically think “Oh my God!”  But what if our first thoughts were actually “Oh my God,…”  It makes you want to know how that sentence ends doesn’t it?  Well you can’t finish that statement, and get to that coveted period, without moving ahead – in spite of that fear. Thank you Pastor Danny for helping me remember that.

Next time you find yourself facing a big change in your life, or some other instance that scares the bejesus out of you, try not to look at it like it’s the end of the world.  Try to look beyond that very moment to what’s coming, after the comma.  The second half of that statement could (and most likely will) change your life.

Photo courtesy of the Tennessean - 5/22/11.