I’ve been asked a lot if I am scared about these upcoming changes and adventures. It’s a complicated question to answer, even though the answer feels so profoundly simple to me.

There are challenges, obstacles and dangers in this journey. But really, that’s true of anywhere – yeah? Seriously, I once had to get stitches from making a homemade pie crust, lol! So I have no desire to be ignorant or naive to potential threats of safety and well-being as I have read, researched and reflected on possible perils.

I am embarking on all of this because I experienced a sweet and lovely invitation from God to join Him on this walk. Keeping my mind and heart centered on God as the initiator of this plan has filled me with a growing sense of love and peace. That love and peace has guided, inspired and empowered me to make all these steps in preparation for the many steps of the Camino!

The only time I recognize fear in my thoughts is when: 1) I am worried about what other people think of me, and/or 2) I am worried I can’t pull all of this off. When I feel fear, I reflect on my process of thinking and see that one of those two thoughts has lodged itself into my thinking. Tracing it back to where that thought began and remembering that I am doing all of this with God, I am then able to let go of the fear of what other people think of me and I also know that God’s grace will enable me to do what needs to be done (which doesn’t neccessarily mean everything I want to be done). Fear is released from me and I am filled with love and peace that gives me courage to keep seeking God’s wisdom and guidance through this transforming season.

Fear can be an excellent point of warning and an invitation for deeper insight, consideration and prepartation…but it can not be trusted as a guide.

“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 The Message)

A handcrafted metal sign made in Haiti that hangs on a wall in my home.