My church is doing a series called “Out of Egypt”. Last week, we discussed identifying the things we need to leave behind. In the story, Moses is leading the Israelites out of Egypt and into the promise land…into freedom. Like the Israelites, we easily become slaves to the familiar, even if it isn’t what is best for us. Having trouble identifying? Here are some examples: Abusive Relationships; Addictions; Unhealthy Diet; Stressful Career; Debt.
These are all things we hold on to because it seems easier than dealing with the discomfort or uncertainty of letting go. Do you live with credit card debt because it’s the only way you can afford your lifestyle? Do you have a significant-other who troubles you with regular arguing and put-downs? What about your job? Do you find yourself in constant worry or sacrificing a personal life to please others? These are unhealthy environments and habits and we need to LET IT GO!
It’s been a long time since I’ve felt real anxiety or stress – I mean the tight-chest & restless mind kind of anxiety. 5 years ago, I was a very different person. I almost always did whatever made others happy. I compromised my own values out of fear, and because of this, I always had to be in control. I was wildly naive, constantly in the wrong place at the wrong time, making irrational decisions out of emotion and wasting a ton of valuable time. This sucked!
This lifestyle of crap, followed by crappier crap, then the crappiest of crap eventually caused me to be bitter, angry and paranoid – all building blocks for an unbreakable wall (with a deadly moat and heavily armed guard). The unending dominos of drama got me thinking – my life is going to wind-up being void of any authenticity or fulfillment if I don’t make a change.
I actively sought after opportunities to move away because I wanted to start over without the distraction of a stressful past – I did just that! The problem was, I wasn’t prepared to deal with the overwhelming vulnerability that would hit me when I went back. I am just now letting go of the comfort zone I found in Florida & frequently answering the same question, “What happened to the old you?”
Well…I am still me, but I’ve let go of some things that were no good & moved on.
What do you need to let go of?
Suggested Author: Dr. Brené Brown Ph.D, LMSW
Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. She has spent the past twelve years studying vulnerability, courage, worthiness, and shame. Her groundbreaking research has been featured on PBS, NPR, CNN, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.
The Gifts of Imperfection
Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are
Daring Greatly
How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
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