effort even when empty

Recently, I stumbled across a journal entry I wrote at the end of last year about my itch to write again:

I remember my last week of of undergrad well: wrapping up a couple internships, planning graduation activities, applying relentlessly for jobs, working at the Writing Center, checking things off my college bucket-list, saying goodbye to friends, and finally, finishing my classes, which meant writing my final term paper for my English degree. I so distinctly remember thinking, "yes, I want this paper to disappear, but this is the last academic paper I will write, so at the same time, I kinda want to cherish it." Now I almost wish for that time back. I so miss writing. I yearn & ache to create something with words. I feel so empty sometimes - like I'm not fulfilling my purpose. Like I'm wasting my passion. Like it's disappearing or I'm losing it. I'm afraid if I don't start again, I won't be good at it anymore.

When the clock struck 2014 on January 1st, I decided this would be the year to charge forward in the direction of my dreams. No longer would I shrink away from change, but instead I committed to charge - lunge - and race toward it. That has been my mantra, my prayer.

So I will keep going. Keep writing. Keep using what's in my hands, what's in my heart. Here on my blog. Elsewhere. Anywhere.

What are you putting off today? I encourage you to take a chance today, friends. Don't keep waiting. Don't keep questioning. Just MOVE. Press that "submit" button even if you're scared. Reach out to that person even at the risk of rejection. Write that business plan even though you're too busy. Choose forgiveness even if you're fractured or frayed. Make an effort even if you feel empty. Go for it! Don't run from it!

And don't do it on your own strength - hold fast to the source of your help. Cling to the Lord for confidence & calm. He has ABUNDANT blessings in store for you. 

you will go out in JOY and be led forth in PEACE

Isaiah 55:12