For the last few years I have kept a book of my favorite quotes. When I hear something I like I write it down. I do this to enable years of reflection on wonderful and inspirational passages. Today as I make my seemingly never-ending journey to a foreign country where I will work in unfamiliar territory amongst people who suffer from leprosy, a certain quote from my book comes to mind.
"Feel the fear and do it anyway"
I have tried to live by this quote for a long time but it seems especially applicable today. When asked what I will be doing in India I usually get one of two responses to my answer of "working in the leper colonies". The first one being a look that reflects disgust, confusion, slight terror and a hint of admiration. The second being a jaw drop accompanied with the proclamation, "you must be so brave!!"
While I appreciate the sentiment I'm here to tell you that bravery has nothing do with it. Just sheer desire to live a dream and serve others along with the knowledge that I am never alone. I have been blessed with the knowledge of my Savior, Jesus Christ. With that comes the knowledge that if I want Him to be, He is always with me no matter what I do and no matter where I go. What my inquirers don't know is that the fear inside of me is just as real as the horror and admiration reflected in their faces and my mind is constantly running in continuous prayer. That fear, however, can be overpowered by my desire and through my pleading and companionship with the Lord.
I am not brave, I am just confident that the Lord will be with me and that it will be worth it. So on this long journey of marathon flights, multiple layovers, language barriers and unfamiliarity to fulfill a dangerous and unlikely dream, I will feel the fear, trust in my Savior, and do it anyway.
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