As natural and unbidden but seemingly welcomed as our fears, uncertainties, and doubts (FUDs) are, they are not always helpful. Life frequently reminds me of FUD mythology. It is easy to believe, as tangible and frightening as each is, they are real! As I wrestle with my FUD demons, I realize I am often wrestling with myself.
Over the past few days, Life’s Whispers have replayed the following lesson reminders with high fidelity.
FUDs are not yet written. Each is a possibility. Regardless of the probability and certainty I might ascribe to them, there is always the chance that something other than the manifestation of the FUD may emerge. Although I mentally know my FUDs are strings from my imagination, I give them life, substance, and respect. My head knows they are not real while my heart and emotions reveal how I am nurturing their continued existence and influence.
In every moment, you and I have a choice. There is a natural tendency within me to let my FUD shape the decision I must make. With disproportionate weight, I give FUDs permission to dominate my thinking. The natural bias which always comes with FUDs change as I shine the light on the place where they live. The dark shadows disappear and a transparent clarity around the choice to be made returns. This process is not easy for me. I find it takes courage, belief, and commitment to care, kindness, and compassion to move beyond my FUDs and into a place where I act with the freedom Divinity has created within me.
Most importantly, and for me most easily forgotten, my FUDs are not “the” story. As I step back from them, I find myself in a greater story. It is larger, more beautiful, and powerful than anything I have imagined. In this story, “God’s in charge – always. Zion’s God is God for good! Hallelujah!” (Psalm 146.10).
As I start a new day, my fears, uncertainties, and doubts have faded as a Divine paintbrush gives me a new dawn filled with fresh hope and new possibilities.
