This week’s Five Minute Friday prompt is on the word relief.
Today I end a career that I’ve held for over 16 years now. Ten of those for the company I leave behind today. It took me awhile to come to terms with this decision…something I’d worked so hard for. But after Wyatt was born it just didn’t set well in my heart. I kept asking myself a lot of whys and wondered if this is how it was supposed to be.
I don’t know if that was God speaking to me during that time, but whatever it was, I kept chugging away at the routine, ignoring my dreams of venturing out to use other talents while working at home to be near the family.
Today I stop ignoring. Read my five minutes on “relief…”
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Relief
Start:
Another chapter closes today. I’ll turn the last page and close the covers of a story spanning ten years.
Some have asked me if I’ll feel relief.
I nod my head with my response and say the same words over and over, “Yes…it’s been a long time coming.”
I’m a peace with the decision. But I know my character. Change is hard.
…it’s easier living out a plot line you’re already acquainted with. One who’s characters you know with your eyes closed. My empathetic nature has to start all over again and search the ins and outs of those God will be sending into my life for something new. I’ll be navigating again.
How accustomed we all become with the autopilot of our senses.
Despite all that, I embrace it it. Today I feel relief as I step out of bed and know that I’m finally giving something else the attention it deserves. That I had the courage to say “enough.”
…no matter how present that hesitation made itself known.
There will be tears. Aren’t there always? As something fades and slips away we mourn the loss for a time.
And I will…
But the right thing has been done. I leave behind something great to embrace something greater.
And so today I exhale that balancing act of the last ten years to inhale the relief that is to come.
Weeping may endure through a night…but joy comes in the morning.
Psalm 30:5
Stop.
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Won’t you join me this week for Five Minute Friday over at Kate Motaung’s page? We’d love to see you there! Just familiarize yourself with this page first, no editing, and set your watch for five minutes.
Hang in there. You are going to do well, no matter what. I’m excited for this new adventure for you!
Oh, change can be so scary and painful. But I love your attitude… honest sorrow mixed with hope and trust that God will provide. This line says it so well: “I leave behind something great to embrace something greater.” Amen! That’s what faith is… that God always moves us for what’s better for us and for HIs glory. Prayers for you on your journey, friend. Happy Friday!
Jen, prayers are with you as you close a chapter today. A year and a half ago, I closed a chapter and began another. It is so hard to say goodbye but God has a way of showing us our decisions are right. They bring peace and relief. Love that you used Psalm 30:5. That is one of my all time fave verses!! Joy does indeed come in the morning.
“I leave behind something great to embrace something greater.” <—Isn't that just amazing grace?! How we can leave behind something, even when it was good, and know that God has more in store for us. Change isn't easy, but change with God can be a beautiful adventure – wishing you all His best on your new one! Hugs, friend!
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for sharing your heart with us. I could sense fresh seeds being planted, as you continue to flourish in your God given purpose.
Blessings to you in your next steps with our Lord by your side.