Day 24: Lessons I've Learned

June 7, 2022

Almost every day in my life, I have surrendered to the mundane and usual routine that I have. I would go after what I find comfortable and convenient. When unfamiliarity knocks on my door, I would instantly run and hide afraid that it might squeeze me. I was like that until one day, I had no choice but to approach unfamiliarity head-on.

There are opportunities in my life that led me through uncomfortable situations. At first, I thought of giving up and running away but circumstances have pushed me to continue. I had no choice but to deal with what the situation had to offer. Many times I feel small. Many times I thought of crying because I thought that I was never good enough. Many times I've contemplated giving up. But I also gave time myself to endure. I continued even when my knees were not strong enough to stand. I showed up even when I doubted myself.

And then days passed. I religiously did my duties. I explored and find ways to be accustomed to what is expected of me. I worked extra. I've practiced being more patient, more forgiving and more understanding.

Then one day, I didn't feel small anymore. I belong. I worked my way through it. Yes, it's true, it was my papers which delivered me to the position but I worked every day to satisfy myself. I worked for my satisfaction. Then I have found a sense of responsibility. I feel like it's not a job anymore, it's a ministry.

Then and there, I learned that it is only hard in the beginning. I was just intimidated by the big picture. That I will eventually get used to it and that I can pull it through.

The number one lesson I've learned now is to be patient with yourself. We will never know what lies ahead of us if we wouldn't continue. It is too soon to give up. No, giving up is not an option. There is so such thing as giving up, especially when you haven't endured for a long while. In every circumstance in our lives that makes us give up. Let us think that it won't be difficult every day because later on, we will just sail gracefully because we have learned enough because we endured for a long while.

So this is a message to you who find it hard to continue, please show up. Show up even when your thought is a mess. Show up even when you feel underqualified. After all, those are lies fed by the enemy.

You will never know what awaits you. So, show up.

How about you? What lesson can you impart today?

• The lead image is from Unsplash.com