by Linda Meadows
“Optimism is the foundation of courage.” Nicholas Murray Butler (1862-1947)
Philosopher, Educator, Diplomat
Are you ready for the possibilities? My favorite poet, Nathan Richardson posed that question that speaks of our willingness and readiness for change. It’s a barometer about our being ready for all the possibilities of newness – new adventures, new thinking, new and positive relationships, new opportunities, and the plain newness of life!
Often we imply that we are ready for the possibilities, but we are not quite sure where to begin. The one thing I know for sure is: we must place some momentum behind the sentiment. As a Reverend I know has said, “We must give feet to faith!” Yes, it’s imperative, we must initiate the spark! Let me share a wonderful moment which really clarifies this point.
We believed we’d come together for a house warming celebration, but God had so much more in store for us on Saturday afternoon. We entered the apartment complex’s community room with joy and anticipation. Our friend was a superb hostess that easily shared a heart of thanksgiving. The many guests bounced through the door each carrying a gift. The gifts opened revealed that they had been carefully and thoughtfully selected: lovely and ornately decorated ceramic canisters, a crystal platter etched with a swan, spunky kitchen and bath necessities and greeting cards filled with personal messages. It was Christmas in August! What we were really doing was celebrating an end of a destructive relationship and applauding her fresh transition of stepping out on faith. We were spiritually looking forward with our dear friend! This was public acknowledgement that: You’ve survived! Now it’s time to move forward! Our presence and gifts applauded her resilience! We boldly declared with her that some relationships are toxic and staying in them serves no good purpose! These soul ties and connections assuredly suffocate life and snuff out dreams. This was a pivotal moment for all attendees. This was confirmation that fresh starts are possible! As gifts were opened several guests were prompted to openly share their victories, struggles and acknowledgements of God’s presence during some trying life episodes. The focus was about looking ahead to celebrating ordinary days with promising tomorrows.
Don’t you see friends, it’s time to change our gaze and realize peaceful safe havens, shore up our energy to scale and walk on new paths, witness new vistas and embrace new possibilities! I am thrilled about the anticipation of newness – assured in my heart of the new possibilities awaiting me and you! In my husband, Richard’s words: “Okay, possibilities, come on, I’m ready!”
Learn more about Linda Mose Meadows on: http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com and http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com, the author of The Blessedness of Believing: A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises.
