Dive in deep.

Ask hard questions. I’ve been given so many opportunities because of my upbringing, determination to succeed, and people I interact with everyday. Am I taking courageous steps to seize the correct opportunities? Do I say “yes” too often? Or, on the contrary, do I say “no” when I really should say “yes?”

Step out of the boat. Do you ever feel like you have missed an opportunity? I have a burden on my heart for my missed opportunities. Whether I had a push to encourage someone and didn’t, or a chance to hang out with a friend and ended up sitting on the couch by myself instead, I wonder what I have missed in the past.

Be intentional. I don’t want to seize every opportunity that comes my way, but to proceed with caution and courage to make sure my focus is clear. I want to serve others, to live in simplicity, and to gain wisdom to share. That’s my heartbeat.

Have courage. I’m continually pushed into situations where I feel inadequate, but I must have courage to take the next step. Fear swells within me when I must talk in front of people, or lead teams of people who are more qualified than I, or even when I’m having a rough day and need to make an effort to be social. I am an introvert who wants to be alone. But, I’m not called to sit in a room by myself. I’m called to serve others, to have courage, and to act on opportunities to love others.

I have been blessed beyond measure by the love and support poured out on me everyday. Now, I have an opportunity to take courage and to pour blessing into the lives around me. I am here to serve and to encourage.