What’s your story going to be about?

It’s been a couple days, but we’re back to it. Today’s quote from A Million Miles in a Thousand Years…

The thing about writing a story, in real life and on paper, is half the effort is just figuring out what the story is going to be.

For a long time, without really knowing it, I guess, I’ve been trying to figure out what my story is going to be. And, until recently, I don’t believe I really knew. I have had several meaningful events and story lines throughout my life, but nothing really notable that said “THIS is what my life is about.”

Now, I do believe God placed me (all of us) here for a reason, and ultimately, that reason is to worship and follow him. But, we each have the ability and choice to do that in different ways. For some, that may mean going to the mission field. For others, it may be about just being a great friend to someone in need. For others still, it may mean something else.

I still don’t have it all figured out, but I think my story is about not living in fear. This point will be discussed a little more in a few days, but in general, it’s about taking risks and enjoying the beauty of life without getting caught up in the little things that so often pull us down.

Since we got married, Anne and I have only taken a few trips together as a couple…I’m talking about nice vacation type trips where it’s just the two of us, and it’s more than one day away. We’ve always made the excuse of money or time or the kids or whatever, but we’ve never really focused on doing much just for the two of US. So, finally, this year (which happens to be our 15th anniversary year), we’re planning a trip to St. John with our good friends…who are also celebrating 15 years! We’ve decided to do it, and we’re going to figure out how – financially, time-wise, kids, everything. We have to save a lot of money between now and November; and we have to figure out some place for the kids to go. But, we’ll get it worked out. It’s invigorating to decide to do something like this, and make it happen.

The same thing applies to my work. I hate sales. Can’t stand it! But, I’ve been trying to get past my fear of sales…making work and business relationships about helping people out, not so much just getting the job. And, it’s been great. My business is picking up, and it’s been fun. Rather than dreading the sales call, I’m actually starting to look forward to it.

I talked in an earlier blog called “Don’t Give In to Fear” about how I’ve always been held back because of fear. But, I’m living a little more fearless lately, and it’s paying off. I’m enjoying life, having fun, spending more time with my wife and kids.

My favorite Bible verse ties into this concept, I think. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) When it comes down to it, there’s just no reason to fear; because when I’m walking with the Lord, I can trust that he’s got my back. His plan is for me to live life abundantly, and if I’m too fearful to take risks, then it will be tough to enjoy the beautiful things he has provided.