Hold on Loosely

I woke up this morning to a text a friend sent me at 4am. It was the following quote:

“Dear God,

I’ve tried my best, but if today I lose my hope

Please tell me that Your plans are better than my dreams.”

It was ironic that was the quote they sent me… It’s one of my little encouragements I have pinned up on my wall at work. It’s been there for several months as a reminder when I feel frustrated, overwhelmed, sad, etc. that God’s plans are better than anything I could hope for myself.

A lot has changed the past several months. It’s hard to believe we’re almost halfway through this year. It’s been an amazing year. It’s been hard and easy and beautiful and fun and sad and awesome – everything life can and should be when we choose to live life to the fullest.

My perspective on a lot of things has completely changed this year. I feel like I’ve shed so many shells. One of those things I have learned is to completely let go. Letting things happen. Trying not to think so much. Do you know what a relief it is to not sit around and dwell on things you cannot change? It is life changing.

I have chosen to change the things I can change. The rest? Whatever happens, happens. Most of it is out of my control anyway so why sit around and worry about it? I’m learning to go with the flow… learning to say yes more often, learning to have some fun… learning to set some pretty firm boundaries with my past (can I get a high five for blocking phone numbers?)… learning to be more accepting… being more gentle with myself and with others.

Instead of thinking about the nice things to say, do, show, act… do it. Just do it. Stop thinking about it. That’s been a huge lesson for me and I’m still learning it. Forget what others are going to think and be the person you were meant to be. Be amazing. You have the ability to be AMAZING. That’s in your control.

I have no idea where life is headed… I’m just on a little sail boat and I’m adjusting the sails as things happen. I don’t have to have a map or a compass or a plan… God has it all under control so I’m just going to coast for a while and see what awesome things I pass on my way through this journey.

Remember: Don’t count the days… make the days count

until next time… xoxo, patty lauren