The unknown is frightening. Not knowing what to
expect, is the reason a lot of people avoid trying new things. I have been
through periods in my life where I have stayed with the safe option. I didn’t take
chances and I certainly didn’t try new things. Looking back, I think that's a
sad existence. I have learned to embrace the unfamiliar. I approach new things
with passion and excitement. Now, we all are creatures of habit and sometimes there
is nothing wrong with routine. The
problem is when you stop exploring because you're afraid of the unknown.
When I
entered my first race I was petrified. I didn’t know what to expect and what
was going to happen. Sure, I had run the distance but I was still new to
running. Of course after I did it, I was hooked. I am grateful that I didn’t let
my fear keep me from entering that first race. My own anxiety could have
prevented me from finding one of the things that makes me happy. This moment of
embracing my fear led me to a snowball effect in my life.
When I
went through my divorce, I was afraid. I didn’t know what to expect. I didn't
know how hard it would be to be a single mom. I didn’t know how to deal with
the drama that was inevitable in divorce. But honestly, it was one of the best
decisions I have made. I took my own happiness into my hands. I took back
control. I am so much happier. My only regret is that I lived a lot of years in
an existence I didn’t like simply because it was comfortable and easy.
When I
met Jackie, I was scared. Never had I been so attracted to someone. Besides the
fact that that someone was a woman; the feelings I had were completely unfamiliar.
I had spent so many nights speculating what my life would be like if everyone
knew; if she knew how I felt. That
fear engulfed me for nearly two years before I finally just embraced the
unknown. I am so unbelievably glad I did. The unknown ended up being so
wonderful.
I use those examples because; some of the scariest
experiences of my life led to something amazing. I will never spend my life unhappy
because I'm afraid of the unknown. Trying new things is what life is all about.
Trying new things is how I found happiness.
So, stop being scared. Better yet, embrace the
fear! Try something you have always wanted to but have been afraid. Go
somewhere you always wanted to go. Make big changes you have been avoiding
because of fear. This life we have is so incredibly short; enjoy it. Do
something that scares you!
