Confidence. 

Something I have struggled with my entire life. 

I hid behind my mother when someone asked me to play. 

I didn't join in when dancing would happen in groups.

I was scared to talk to people, even my own family at gatherings.  

I wouldn't order for myself at restaurants until I was well into middle school.

I was afraid to try new things because I didn't want to embarrass myself. 

I wouldn't wear what I truly wanted to wear or pursue things at the expense of being labeled.

I didn't fully commit myself to college because I was afraid of what might happen if I actually tried.

I didn't pursue passions I had from youth because I didn't have the confidence to simply begin.

I can still hold this thread and look back on how it has affected my life and the choices I've made.

I still struggle with confidence daily. 

To be bold in who I am and what I believe. To parent my children with confidence. To pursue things I love at the expense of looking like a failure. To fully live because safety is easier. 

BUT. This lack of confidence is just fear wearing a different mask. 

It is amazing the way fear weaves through our lives. It leaves nothing untouched if we let it. 

I know I have been an active participant in partnering with fear for most of my life. 

But the moment I choose not to partner with fear, it loses its grip and influence. 

We have two choices in every situation: love or fear.

Everything boils down to love or fear. 

When we wake up to love, we are able to see it in all its forms. 

We can then recognize fear when it disguises itself as doubt, shame or guilt. 

We can choose love instead. 

Because love chooses us every day.

KLW