Letting Go

Last week during Spring break I had the priviledge of seeing a Cirque Du Soleil show. To say the least, it was truly amazing! Dr. Sandra D. Wilson (2001) talks about the difficulties of implementing change in her book, Hurt People Hurt People. She compares the process to a trapeze artist safely standing on a platform looking for the swinging bar. In order to complete the act, the artist has to let go of the pole that is protecting her from falling. Although I saw no hesitation with the performers of Cirque Du Soleil, I can see myself tightly grasping that pole, palms sweating and me kicking and screaming as I say, "no way, get me out of here!"

Dr. Wilson (2001) recognizes that change can be "very scary" especially when we are comfortable right where we are (p. 101). I can relate to Dr. Wilson's visualization well because I am always hesitant about change and jumping into something unfamiliar. I would much rather stay in my comfort zone. Despite the hardships we face in the mist of change, Dr. Wilson (2001) says that it is all worth it.

The good news is, we do not have to face the scariness of change alone. Christians have a power source that guides us toward truth. The Holy Spirit will help us. First, we need to ask Jesus to be Lord of our life and then to "power our changing" (Wilson, 2001, p. 103). So, when we are in our comfort zones on that platform and looking at that scary moment when we are contemplating whether to grab the swinging bar of change, remember that God has us in His hands and will not let us fall. He is our safety net! "The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you, nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged" (Deuteuronomy 31:8, NIV).