At the corner table til closing hours.

I know that there are some of you have settled into staying small in your story.

In some ways, it’s easier – less rocking of the boat, less conflict, less risk. I know, because despite what you all see there is a part of me that struggles with wanting to go that route.

Sometimes it is easier to say, “I don’t care….” and yet deep down, deep in the hidden parts of my heart I truly do care.

But I get afraid, honestly.

I don’t like conflict.

In fact, I’m not great at speaking up or sharing my heart without getting defensive about how I feel.

And so, sometimes, as the default it has been easier to just stay small. And small might not be what you imagine.

Small is about deciding our hearts, your perspective, your dreams are worth putting on the shelf instead of pursuing them.

Life isn’t about that, honestly.

I just finished watching “Soul” for the second time and I found myself even more emotional this time.

It’s not that we have to make a big commotion with our lives or be in the center of everything – it’s really about living our life with this fullness and purpose.

Living small is the opposite of full. It’s living worrying about what others think and letting that define. It’s living worrying about failing and deciding to not try.

It’s not vibrant.

Shrinking from one’s heart isn’t living with that joy.

Oh, we can convince ourselves that it’s noble or easier or the right role but the truth is that our heart suffocates under those words of “I’m fine” and “it’s not big deal” and “it doesn’t matter…”

Your heart matters.
Your dreams matter.
Your voice matters.
Your courage matters.
Your trying matters.

I know it’s can be hard to shine, especially if you’re like me and like to keep things in balance. But don’t compromise on your story. Don’t let fear dictate the things you say no to or needing to fit in things you say yes to.

You have one shot.

Live it with vibrancy.
Live it with pride.
Live it with joy.

You aren’t here to live small.

Sometimes we got stuck behind the “who am I to do <whatever it may be>?” and we question our worth. We question our purpose, we doubt our vision all with those simple words.

So instead, ask yourself, “What happens if I try?” And then dare to try. Instead of seeing the things that don’t work start to see all the things that did work. Look at your reflection and start to be proud of the story found in those eyes.

There is only one you. One story. One impact.

Shine.
And chances are that you will bless countless others.
-Rachel

one last thing – small and simple are different. You can live with boldness and vibrancy and not need to be an extroverted person needing attention. Small is simply referring to denying one’s own heart – cutting out part of self instead of living whole.
#findingjoy
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