The story I am about to tell you has a lot to do with the attached picture. From time to time, as you are reading, glance at the picture as a reminder of my words.

All through our lives, all of us have experienced: ups and downs, laughter and tears, loss and gains, sickness and health, fear and strength, happiness and sadness, and love and hate. Some have suffered more than their share of downs, tears, sadness, illness, and hate. Some have carried a broken heart way too long.

Sometimes the experiences began when they were very young and stayed with them for many years. Sometimes, those experiences nest in their hearts until the moment they take their last breath.

Sometimes, those suffering, hide behind a curtain, not willing to risk what others might think of them; not willing to take a chance. Their curtain shields and protects them from more hurt. A hurt that robs them of a happy full life.  Are you someone who is standing behind the curtain afraid of taking a chance; afraid of failure and not being accepted?

If so, I want you to know that it is a brand new day! I want you to know just how important you are to me and to everyone who loves you.

I have a question for you. What is your passion? 

Mine was working with children. But for many years, I was afraid to take a chance. Afraid to sit in a college class, afraid to raise my hand which stemmed back to my elementary school days. I must admit that my first few days had me feeling as those my stomach was doing backflips. Until I realized that if I wanted to make a difference, I had to take a chance. A small chance at first. Sort of like testing the waters. I studied really hard and knew the daily material inside out. But still, my hand did not inch up. It wasn’t until my professor called on me and I knew the answer. That is when things started to turn around. My stomach calmed down and my heart did a backflip, but this time it was a feeling of happiness. 

 I want you to know that if I could do it, so can you! Each success, found my self-confidence growing. Almost like a bud on a tree before the flower bursts open. I wasn’t perfect and will admit that I didn’t have the right answer all the time, but it was okay. I learned from it and moved on. I did not and would not give up. That is what I want for you! I want you to believe in yourself. I want you to take what you know then build on it. Don’t be afraid to have setbacks. Those setbacks often help us grow. Make your mark in the world. Be strong and courageous! 

Embrace your imperfections.  Those pesky feelings and what we think is wrong about us are actually a blessing.  Those imperfections are what make us unique. Embrace them. You are beautiful inside and out. Be who you are. Love others, help others, and I promise that your life will change in a way that you never thought was possible.

God created you for a reason. He loves you more than you could ever imagine.  It is a brand new day, what happened in the past is over, the new you is ready.  You are loved and deserve a wonderful, exciting life filled with respect, admiration, acceptance, and love; much love. So, go ahead take a chance, open the curtain and see what happens. Your heart will thank you!