"If you are never scared, embarrassed, or hurt, it means you never take chances." Julia Soul
When I read this quote today, I knew something magical was happening in my world. I'd just spent a few hours questioning my decision to jump back into community volunteering. It's not always easy. There are so many opinions about what 'should' happen; did happen; could happen or might never happen. There are those who want to be right and those who want to condemn. Some people will never forget and others have never really understood. And I've jumped back into this mix of dynamic personalities, fierce intentions and inspiring leadership as my first retreat of the season fast approaches.
I'm scared - of annoying, hurting or angering people. I'm embarrassed that my style is sometimes overwhelming to others. I'm hurt that my offers to help are occasionally met with indifference, criticism and judgement. But I read this quote and decided to hang in. Because I love my community and it matters to me that I contribute. When I 'disappeared' two years ago to get my business back on track there were lots of people who stepped up and stepped in. Now I have to be careful I don't step 'on' anyone as I make a much more subtle comeback.
If I let fear, shame or pain get in the way, I wouldn't feel the surge of connection that has already happened as I accept responsibility for a key role in managing a shared community space. I'm a natural leader and always learning how to be more effective. This is a really good place to start.
Where in your life are you ready to take chances for the sake of something bigger than yourself?
When I read this quote today, I knew something magical was happening in my world. I'd just spent a few hours questioning my decision to jump back into community volunteering. It's not always easy. There are so many opinions about what 'should' happen; did happen; could happen or might never happen. There are those who want to be right and those who want to condemn. Some people will never forget and others have never really understood. And I've jumped back into this mix of dynamic personalities, fierce intentions and inspiring leadership as my first retreat of the season fast approaches.
I'm scared - of annoying, hurting or angering people. I'm embarrassed that my style is sometimes overwhelming to others. I'm hurt that my offers to help are occasionally met with indifference, criticism and judgement. But I read this quote and decided to hang in. Because I love my community and it matters to me that I contribute. When I 'disappeared' two years ago to get my business back on track there were lots of people who stepped up and stepped in. Now I have to be careful I don't step 'on' anyone as I make a much more subtle comeback.
If I let fear, shame or pain get in the way, I wouldn't feel the surge of connection that has already happened as I accept responsibility for a key role in managing a shared community space. I'm a natural leader and always learning how to be more effective. This is a really good place to start.
Where in your life are you ready to take chances for the sake of something bigger than yourself?