Uncertain Destinations

Visiting an inmate in prison can be exhausting and stressful. The gate opens, and you step beyond tall razor-wired fences. The scrutiny of suspicious eyes from armed guards, the intimidation of metal detectors, and stern voices accompany you to an uncertain destination. The twisting in your gut pulls tighter with each steel door that opens and closes, trapping you inside.

Security cameras and guards watch your body language, the movement of your hands and facial expressions. You’re ordered to keep your hands above the table as you wait for the inmate to appear from yet another steel door while feelings of being imprisoned battles against your inner screams to run back toward the doors of freedom.

Regardless of the situation, whether visiting a prison, going out on a date, or preparing a speech, uncertainties can be overwhelming. Though the destinations differ in each of the above circumstances, fear of the unknown can stall or stop your progress.

The same goes for writing a novel. Oh, the stresses of putting yourself out there for others to scrutinize and critique. You know the desired destination is for some editor to scoop up your work, offer accolades of greatness, and publish your book. However, the likelihood of that happening the first time around is nil. This doesn’t mean your manuscript isn’t good; it just means you’re wading through the process toward a hopeful destination.

With each step forward new experiences become stepping stones on the road of learning. The unfamiliar becomes familiar, and anxiety dissipates. The tension of uncertainty starts fading, and your destination becomes clearer which gives you the courage to continue.

• You’ll breathe easier once you’ve experienced visiting someone in prison. The next visit won’t be so overwhelming.
• Going out on that first date resolves nervous tension and confirms whether another date is possible.
• Conquering a speech and delivering it dissolves your hesitation and feelings of inadequacy.
• Following through and writing a novel opens your eyes to what it takes to complete the task.

If you’re facing a situation where the outcome is uncertain, I encourage you to take a deep breath, put one foot in front of the other and conquer one project at a time. Hold your head high, trust God, and march forward.

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:37 NIV

You are stronger than you think! You are smarter than you think! You are braver than you think!

Have you conquered a tough situation with an uncertain destination? I have, and I believe you have too.

I’d love to hear your story.

Loretta