Quote of the Day: Hebrews 12:1
Today’s New International Version (TNIV)
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
This is a great verse to tuck into your back pocket as you persevere through life. The images lift me up. I feel myself moving into that cloud of witnesses and being surrounded by people who love and support me. They are there for you, too.
On the first Wednesday of every month, Alex J. Cavannaugh is hosting the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. I joined right in. Last month, I wrote about feeling like I didn’t really belong in the world of playwrights. You can read about it here. Last week, I wrote about feeling afraid to meet the National Players and participate in their improv workshop, but I did it anyway. I describe the experience here.
And, you could have heard the voices in my head screaming ridicule and excuses to convince me not to go to The Guthrie. I mean, who I am to be invited to Blogger Night at The Guthrie?
But, here I am, standing in front of the theatre, all my insecurities rolling on the highway that lead me here.
Here’s the thing. People feel insecure. They’re afraid of taking risks, looking imperfect, being vulnerable. Yet, they are longing for new experiences, to live into their authentic lives, and to be a positive force in the world. You can “What if” yourself into isolation and depression, or you can surround yourself with that cloud of witnesses, the people who give you light and love, and go forth with confidence.
Last month, after I posted my insecurities, I went on Facebook and tagged some of the people who had offered encouragement. When I started making that list, I realized that I was surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. I paused. Said a prayer of thanks, and said “Yes!” to the next new opportunity – despite my insecurities.
Go. Create. Inspire!
And, someday soon, Dare!
Journaling Prompt: Make a list of people who are part of your cloud of witnesses, those who give you strength, support, love and light.
Ah, a cloud of witnesses. Yes, that’s how I feel about my blogging buddies. I feel like we keep each other honest about our goals and ambitions.
Nice to meet you. Love that opening quote.
Oh, this is wonderful to read this morning… You are part of my cloud of witnesses 🙂 My way lately has been to reflect a little bit (what I’d like to do), let the self-doubts drop at my feet, and then just go! 🙂
I love this post, Mary, and the beautiful way you presented it. THANK YOU. I think I needed this today. 🙂
Thank you for the remminder of that “cloud of witnesses.” Just what I needed to hear today by way of encouragement. Thank You!
I have always been drawn to the image of a “cloud of witnesses”–a way of drawing strength from those who went before. I also love your image of the insecurities rolling with you on the highway to the Guthrie–as if you are harnessing their nervous energy and going where you choose to go.
Amen. Growing experiences are never pain-free, but often worthwhile. Nice blog:)
I LOVE the cloud of witnesses idea and have called it to many for many different reasons, but this is as good as any — the cloud of friendships that have walked alongside me through all the doubts. There’s nothing a cloud can’t do when it’s intact and moving upward, following the light. !!!
We do want new experiences and that forces us out of our comfort zone. And if I made a list of my supporters it would be really, really long!
Awesome and inspiring. You are so right on the money. I’m very selective with who I spend time with these days… building my cloud of witnesses, so to speak. And I feel like life is about the risks we take.. about being brave and making things happen. 🙂
It’s all about pushing our boundaries! Good one! Great post also…
When I saw your blog title, I thought…”Mary, wrote a blog post about me?” (Joking) Actually, I wish I saw this earlier as I would definately wrote a blog entry, but time doesn’t permit this month.
You, my dear, are at the top list of those who give me strength and encouragement. So many times I was tempted to give up my dream–but you, Roxane and JeMa have been a solid source of inspiration and encouragment. Thank you for all you do!
Mary, thanks for being a constant supporter in my life, both creatively and personally. You are inspiration.
Yes! The blogging world is so supportive and encouraging. When we step out from our insecurities, we gain so much, including lasting friendships.
I like that “cloud of witnesses”! I have a huge group for my writing cloud and I think of them as earthly angels God as so graciously bestowed on me!
Thanks for the reminder of this aspect of the communion of the saints. I draw a lot of courage not only from living friends, but also folks I’ve known and lost, like my dad, and famous writers now gone who’ve led me on the creative path, like Madeleine L’Engle.
wait…are you in MN ike me? Did i know you’re in MN? Gah, my memory has been shot lately!