Written August 17th, 2019
When I think back on the last few years, I realize that I have found tremendous joy in the things that I was terrified to take on. I can see clearly that those decisions I made when feeling the most anxious and scared, were really the prizes in life. Truth be told, I’m in love with the idea of living scared.
Let’s be clear. When I say scared,I do not mean being fearful of life in a sense that you are in danger or even that the consequences are very high. I just mean being uncomfortable and having the outcome of a move or a decision be uncertain. I’m smirking just thinking of it. Here are few examples:
-Once I moved onboard a 63 ft yacht with a 74 and 81 year old couple that I’d met once, over lunch for 45 minutes. Although that’s a large boat, that is a tiny living space for strangers. 6 weeks on the vessel and the most beautiful friendship evolved. I would go so far as to say that I have never been taught more lessons, that I think about daily, in such a brief time.
-At 22, I traveled to Maine, by road, with a boy that I’d hung out with for the first time a week and a half prior. I’d quit my job a week before and therefore had no source of income, no hurry to return back, and very disappointed father. Let’s just say that I had a bit of independence rolling through my veins. Now, five years later I am still in a relationship with said boy and not only that, but we live and manage a million dollar business, but own another business, have a dog, and are best friends.
-Once I bought a business off of Craigslist- a small coffee shop kiosk in my favorite city. I spent a winter sipping coffee and tea whilst meeting some of the finest people i now know.
These are just big examples, a few of many times where great risk brought great reward. I think when we go with our gut and take chances, we will be rewarded with the thrill but also the beautiful outcomes.
Life is a ride.
Take care.