Are you like me? For most of my life I considered myself shy. Doing new things would fill me with anxiety to the point of avoidance. The only way I could go to a new restaurant or attend a party was if I could go with someone familiar. The fear response in me, out of fight, flight or freeze, has always been freeze. It shows up as indecision or depression. It’s a war between what I want and what I fear. I want to try new things and enjoy the company of others, but my fear rises up filling me with anxious thoughts.

This year my word from the Lord is FRESH. He wants me to see old things from a fresh perspective. And that’s what I’ve been attempting to do. But, I’m still the same person. I still respond like me.

Can I approach my life with a fresh perspective?

The short answer is, “Yes!”

Someone who is courageous does something difficult or dangerous, even though they may be afraid.

https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/courageous

In this definition of courageous we see someone can act with courage without feeling courageous. Here is another view:

Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear.

Mark Twain

Already I am feeling hopeful. I’m beginning to see I can feel fearful and still overcome it. That’s how yesterday went. I set a deadline to audition for Sweet Adelines knowing I would have to work through my anxiety. I asked for prayer. As I practiced the song, my voice was scratchy and I had trouble supporting the notes. My head was screaming for me to postpone the audition. But, I had made myself accountable by asking for prayer and setting the time to audition.

I read through the posts of those who were praying and put my weight on them (as my pastor taught) knowing God would answer. It surprised me, but it didn’t surprise me, that during my audition my voice was clear and the blend of the four part harmony was delicious (I auditioned with the three other parts being sung by established members.) I fought my fears with God’s help, and now I get to enjoy the spoils.

I want to mention how I am learning more about what it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). How all this makes sense. When I understand the way I respond, and give myself permission to have those responses, then I can partner with God to find the way forward. I don’t have to freeze (or fight or flee) because fear can be overcome.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP

With God I can be strong and courageous. You can, too.

Lord, I pray for those who feel afraid even when it doesn’t make sense. I pray you will gird them with your strength and courage to move forward and embrace a life full of joy and new possibilities.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

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