By Ginger Cavender
It is no secret that we all experience different seasons in our life. These extended moments in time can bring tremendous joy or devastating sadness. We can plan for these occasions – save money, train hard, make a list…but eventually, everyone has that season. You know the one. The season that you never imagined would happen to you.
Now you are in complete crisis. Each breath taken is an exhaustive effort. Fear overtakes and consumes you. The question, “How am I going to get through this?” has never been more applicable than at this very moment.
At Care Net, many young women walk through our doors during their own unplanned season. They are filled with a multitude of emotions, but their fear is prominent and overwhelmingly palpable.
During their visit at Care Net, each woman tells her personal story. She has her own season to experience. Her feelings of vulnerability at this stage are staggering. Breathing still feels like an effort. Slowly, she unfolds her fears, goals, dreams, and concerns. She verbalizes feelings about her situation that she finds somewhat surprising. No one before now has ever asked her about her own personal thoughts and feelings. Although foreign, this feels comforting and maybe even encouraging. She receives vital information from staff who show her unconditional love and kindness. Suddenly, the relentless feeling of trying to catch her breath seems less daunting.
She walks out the door of Care Net equipped with information and encouragement. As she continues her journey in this season, this amazing young woman discovers something she never expected to find – a quiet bravery.
This unplanned moment in her life is difficult and exhausting. She will have to do things that she has never done before. There is no longer the luxury of living in her comfort zone. This frightened young woman will decide to make the choice to be brave.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
This incredible promise brings us a comforting reassurance that we will eventually survive our own challenging season. We must keep in mind however that it won’t be easy. My guess is that it probably isn’t supposed to be!
Not only so, but we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4
Quietly, without accolades, we all must humbly face our moment of crisis. Each baby step is taken and each minor battle is fought. Gradually we find a confidence and fortitude that will last well beyond this season. Finally, we can again breathe with ease!
