The Power of Saying Yes

Have you seen this photo? Likely you have as I have seen it on many social networking sites... It seems simple really, just jump over to that other circle! In reality, venturing beyond the cozy confines of the familiar requires overcoming the fear of the unknown- a fear that has often seized my heart. Last year I had the chance of a lifetime to get outside my comfort zone-- over 7,000 miles outside of it--when I said yes to go to South Africa on a mission trip. Though I have traveled outside the United States some, I hadn't done very much so since having two children, a husband and a full time job. Complacency was an easy fit.  This trip was also more daunting because it meant going into poor communities to meet people in dire need, some of whom were suffering. It meant traveling with some with whom I wasn't close, having little communication with family, and listening to stories of amazingly resilient people who stood fierce in the face of unfathomable hardship. It was an emotional roller coaster. It was life changing. 

Clearly, taking a ride like that is not for everyone, or maybe it is. But leaving your comfort zone doesn't have to mean doing something as drastic as journeying halfway around the world. It could be as simple as starting a new workout, giving more in offering, volunteering at the local shelter, lifting your hands in worship...  Or it could be something else like stepping out on that dream job you've always wanted, starting your own business or that small group you've been thinking about. All of these come with their own risks, but taking risks builds confidence and usually character. And, at the very least, it opens your eyes to new possibilities. 

Something amazing happened on my trip. I learned how adaptable I can be, that we need far less than we think to be happy, and small gestures of compassion have big payoffs--for the giver and receiver.  It was a perspective-sharpening experience that I'll cherish always. I'm so glad I said yes to Africa. 

I am hoping to return to South Africa in just two short months. Since I was there last the churches have grown, they've expanded one of the buildings and a small fundraiser I had in January helped them to begin their own garden to grow for a soup kitchen and for the locals to maintain. The whole teach a man to fish mantra... It's exciting to be a part of something bigger, something growing, something humane and beautiful. 

The question is: what will you say yes to?