I used to think I understood courage. I used to think that to be courageous meant you did not have any fear. I would pride myself on how I could eliminate fear from situations. I was fearless. I was even "fearless" when I moved to Tennessee. But being honest with you, every single day living here I have had to do something scary. Things like going into a crowded coffee shop alone, attending a new church alone, applying for jobs I don't feel qualified for, waking up and getting ready for the day full of unknowns and potential.
"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." -Nelson Mandela
As Nelson Mandela said, being courageous is not to have zero fear, but doing something despite the fear. In order to grow, you have to keep moving forward. I'm learning on this new adventure that fear is not a weakness. When I feel alone, I quickly remember that the Lord is with me in all of this. I am NOT alone. There is something about being thrown into a new environment that forces you to grow. Each day I am here I am learning more about myself. And i've learned that when you push yourself into the fear, into the situation, it becomes less scary. And each time you do it, the fear in it subsides and then you start to grow. The crazy part is, now I look forward to fear because I know it is another opportunity to trust God and have Him fill me with strength. Experience has taught me that growth is on the other side, and I wouldn't dare miss an opportunity to grow and learn.
 "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7
When I'm feeling fearful, I remember this verse. We have the advantage belonging to the Savior. He is on our side and He gives us strength. So what fear is playing on repeat in your mind? I believe that you can face it. I know it may make you want to vomit or just curl up in a ball wearing your sweatpants. But I am positive that if you push yourself through it, you will not regret it.
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