I’m starting to feel it again… the knowing, tingling sensation of anticipation laced with a hint of terror. I felt it the first time I faced a Model UN committee room in New York with hundreds of international students stretching out in all directions, walking up the long hall of a political rally before giving a speech to thousands of energized people, when I pounded my chalky hands together in a white puff before launching into a critical routine on the uneven bars…. There are moments that define us and sometimes, we feel their significance while in the very process of experiencing them.
Tomorrow, I’m taking a step into my new arena. This arena will be filled with more joy, heartbreak, frustration, and love then I have ever experienced before. And it will change me in remarkable ways. I’ve never been more thrilled, but because I’ve jumped with both feet into major growth experiences before I know a bit about what’s coming… !!!
While discussing growing pains and life challenges, someone once shared with me a comparison between trials and building muscle. When you exert your muscles beyond their current ability, the muscles tear and become sore and painful. However, after this phase of tenderness, the muscles build themselves up again, stronger than they were before.
My spiritual, emotional, and physical muscles feel tensed and ready to go. I know that exertion is coming and it will present itself in unexpected ways. But I also know I will come out much stronger, and that….. that is an incredible realization.
I’m ready to go –eager, and energized by the wonder and joy of what I get to do.
Tomorrow I zip up my suitcases and hand off my phone.
Tomorrow I give up politico.com, Swedish Fish, and Thai curry for 18 months.
Tomorrow I say a few goodbyes and many hellos.
Tomorrow I put on a neon dork dot and eat at the MTC cafeteria (while smiling!)
Tomorrow I temporarily sign off as Lauren Barden…
And report for duty.
here's to giving our best in all the extraordinary moments of our lives.
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