Life, as we know it, has resumed it's school time schedule. "Normal" is not a static state. To me, "normal" is always changing, getting back to school routines THIS year, is not the same as it was last year. Things are always changing. I think I like change, most of the time.
I am stepping out of my comfort zone....again. Not just a little step...but three concentric circles beyond comfortable. If I look back on the past few years, though, some of my greatest accomplishments and things "I am most proud of" were the results of stepping out. I think when we step beyond our reach, God has us exactly where He wants us. Not confident in ourselves, yet willing to make ourselves available to be used. That's where He steps in and meets us. There is always a long list of reasons why we should stay within the boundaries of what we know for sure, and usually a much shorter list of why we shouldn't.... I have had enough experiences with saying "no" to know that it isn't always easier, even though the list is shorter.
It is getting to the point where stepping out is becoming normal. There is a real thrill that comes with the anticipation that God is going to do something great, add another "gift" to my toolbox, and use me to make something happen in His Kingdom. The best part is that it isn't about me, but that it's going to bring Him Glory! It's also neat to look back once in a while to take stock of what you might have missed out on if you had said, no, and limited yourself.
So look at the "normal" people around you, the ones that you look up to and are inspired by. My guess is that these people step beyond the zone on a regular basis, and exude a confidence that they can "do all things through Christ who strengthens [them]". My kind of people!!!
