The Shadows

In a recent conversation, a request was made of a friend, her response to the request resonated and touched a chord deep within my core. It felt as if a million light bulbs started flashing in my head. You see, I was just like that and if I am true to myself and to you, a little part of that is still lingering in me. She said that she was in the shadows.

I saw how much I loved hiding, afraid to speak up in meetings, to share my opinions, thoughts and how I truly felt and most of all shying away from responsibilities. My mind was in a tail spin as I realized that hiding and staying out of the light for me, meant a lack of self confidence which led to the silencing and dulling of my voice, I was afraid of being "seen". Can you identify with this?

Have you ever noticed that you like the shadows because you won't be seen, you feel less pressured and you feel quite comfortable where you are? If you can, I want you to look at what keeps you hidden. Were you always like this, do you feel truly comfortable and confident where you are? In looking back, lack of self confidence and low self esteem were the biggest obstacles that held me back. They were used as cloaks to keep me hidden, I didn't want to be seen, as I felt that I would be judged. Later this led to me doubting that my voice had any power to make a difference,

On December 13, 2019, after years of being in the shadows, the Lord pulled me out. It was not easy, coming out. The shadows held comfort and security. Coming out meant that I now had to build my confidence, self esteem and ultimately use my voice. The transition was a daily act to leave my hiding place to step and walk in the light. It was literally putting one foot in front of the other with a determination to not return .

Our voices are powerful tools, we should use it to make a difference and impact lives daily; in our homes, offices, church and community. However, due to fear and other issues, we stay silent. My question to you today is this, do you wish to speak up, but you believe that you have waited so long that an opportunity will not come your way again? It will, but you have to be prepared to make a step. Remember, it's a daily walk, one that will take work, I still have to do it daily and you can too ,

Who would have believed that the path that I am now on would require me to use my voice and to help build self confidence in others. through using their voices?. It required and will require obedience, add to that, leaving the known for the unknown and the comfortable for the uncomfortable. It is a sacrifice that is well worth it and will pay off for us in the long run.

The shadows is a hiding place, and one day the curtains will be drawn and light will come flashing through. It will be blinding at first, however, as we adjust and refocus we soon realize that we have an inner strength and resiliency that will keep us as we make the daily walk. It will require patience, mental fortitude and a deep desire to let go of what kept us hidden and in the dark. I have every confidence that you will make that step, build that confidence and use your voice. Blessings.

Proverbs 31: 8-9 NIV. Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.