Risks

I have a very dear friend who encourages me to take risks.
And it is funny because recently he said to me that every time he has seen me take risks, it has paid off.
That is funny because in the season I am in right now - I can't see that at all.
All I can see is the trees that surround me.
I need someone who can step back and see the forest.
Someone like my friend.
He is the one who first told me that I am a writer.
And made me say it out loud.
And encouraged me to embrace it.
He is the first one who told me that I am far more than what I do.
Which was freeing for me...as I have always felt inadequate in my skill set...and don't feel like I can contribute a whole lot.
He encouraged me to be relational even when it hurt.
And told me I was doing the right thing - even as I watched a friendship explode around me. When all I wanted to do was make it better by losing myself - he helped me stay strong.
He reminded me the other day that all of these things were risks for me.
And he reminded me again that I make a difference in the world.
And that although life seems dark right now - God is working in the mess and making something beautiful.
He reminded me again the importance of friends.
They show you your face.
They hold a mirror up and remind you who you are.
And I am a risk taker living an adventure that doesn't always seem worth it. But if I hang on - the fun part of watching all of the pieces come together makes it clear.