I finally fell while skating yesterday (
refer to post written on October 13, 2006). It was not nearly as bad as I had imagined it would be. I would argue that it was a very graceful fall, but nevertheless, a fall. As I sat on the ice, laughing, I realized that I have actually improved since I first started skating this fall because I have picked up some speed, the pain does not set in as quickly, and I am a little more smooth. It took a fall to realize I am more comfortable on the ice than I originally was. It was a good moment. I think I can totally relate this to real life situations and the valleys and mountains the Lord takes me through. I learn so much more by going through something 'negative', than if I were just to coast through life. Looking back at challenges, I can observe just how far I have come. A poster in my room says, "Perseverance -- never measuring the height of the mountain until you reach the summit." I tend to get overwhelmed or draw myself back just at the sight of a mountain. But God's plans are to build me up with His strength through my weaknesses. I am a broken person, but He lifts me up and gives me wings like eagles to soar. I just need to trust. And just like my figure skater friend Heather kept her promise to fall with me on the ice and help me up again, God is always with me and will pick me up EVERY time.
