A Running Jump

I don't do that very often.

Mostly because I can't run that fast. And secondly if I were to jump after running I would probably fall. That doesn't feel good.

I guess that is why in life I tend to stay on the ground. Not hopping. Not playing leapfrog. No seesaw either. Let's keep both feet on the ground. The crash and burn hurts.

Better to play it safe.

But is it better? Is it better to stay safe? Is that what we are called to do in our life? 

As much as I dislike falling and bruising I think it's the embarrassment that causes me the most pain. When I fall I tend to look around and see who was watching.

Really?

You've got to be kidding. No one is watching. 

And so it is in life. We learn early to avoid pain. We don't jump. Take risks. Pursue dreams. Dive in. Try. Or even attempt to try. 

Because peril lurks.

Yes, I might fall. 

Yes, it might not work out. 

Yes, it might involve much effort and time.

Yes, it might mean answering awkward questions.

Instead I play it safe. Binge watch Netflix. Fill my Amazon cart. Scroll through Instagram. Not that hanging out or relaxing is bad or wrong. I'm just saying I can't let it take the place of a few bruises.

Life is meant to be lived.

I'll probably fall. And you might too. But, let's get up and try again. Together we can encourage and reassure each other. We can learn from our first attempts. Make a few changes. Redirect. Pivot. Swerve.

I've spent a bit too much time playing it safe on the ground so I've got some hurdles to jump over to get started. Hopefully you can head straight for the cliff and jump right off. I'm rooting for you.

But hey, don't laugh if I fall because you know I'll be looking around to see who's watching.