The First Step In Air

I watched as one teenager after another climbed the high platform, hooked into the harness, and jumped with a whoosh into the trees. This was the last course at T Bar M camp, where I volunteered with a youth ministry and mentored a group of girls. All mine had been through it and survived, so had the boys. My feet were very happy planted firmly on the ground.

“It’s called the Screamer or the Breath-Taker. You see, people either scream their lungs out or not make a sound at all. Which one do you think you are?” The camp supervisor had meant well but I was not eager to find out.

But then this little whisper bubbled to the surface. “Face your fear; don’t leave here without trying.” So for a long time I’d sat at the bottom of the huge platform in the sky wondering if I could really conquer my fear of heights.

Finally, the whole group gathered around and encouraged me. I’d done all the other activities, hadn’t I? This was a turning point somehow, I knew it deep down inside. So I finally climbed up the ridiculously high ladder, knees knocking as I landed on the platform and got strapped in. I dangled for some time with everyone watching and my legs on the edge of the platform.

“Want me to push you?” A burly man offered, hands outstretched behind me.

“Nope, I’ll do it. Just a minute.”

It’s the “just a minutes” in life that can last longer if we’re not careful. Especially if we’ve been through difficulties.

And then I stepped into space and free-fell for several moments. Screaming all the way. Smiling, too.

I did it.

Perhaps there’s some area of your life you’re supposed to be resilient in and trust in a new way. I want to encourage you for new insights this summer. What’s that big step—the one that feels like you’re jumping into space in your life?

I’ve often had to find the “right turn” or new direction. Whether it was my family facing medical emergencies, our fire survival stories, or my own path into becoming a gemologist, life’s definitely given me some incredible challenges and opportunities.

Something exciting is happening this week. I’ve stepped in a new direction, through an open door for the books and am so grateful for this opportunity.

That memory of stepping off the platform, giggling all the way, taking pleasure in the sailing and finding firm ground once more, has remained after many years.

If it’s where you’re meant to try, take heart knowing that adventures can’t begin unless you do take that first step ahead.

Bless you in your new beginnings.

___________________

So here’s the big news: I’ve just signed with Waterside Productions Literary Agency for my novels and series. We’re excited to share the news and hope you’ll come on the journey to getting published, too!