My life is a constant state of walking on water. As a performing artist, my job has a definite start, but its duration is not based on the quality of my work, but totally dependent upon box office sales. There’s no direct formula to determine the success of a show and I have come to embrace my “job insecurity” as a blessing and not a curse. My job mirrors the life we all lead as unexpected things happen both wonderful and devastating, no matter who we are. I saw the movie Frozen for the first time last week, rather late after it’s release, but the timing was perfect for me. I saw the movie one week before the end of a contract, and one day before I was asked to write this article. (Funny huh?!) “Let It Go” was the song heard around the globe last year, which I find fitting because the more I live, the more I realize the key to braving unexpected challenges in life lies in Letting Go. As I watched the movie, I couldn’t help but see similarities between Elsa and myself.
These are some of the things I have learned through letting go:
Community is Essential
Being away from my home and family made me realize the importance of community. Silence has a way of making you feel discouraged and alone in your journey. Elsa thought separating herself from people would make things better, but it actually hurt herself and those around her more than it helped. Having friends who love and share their experiences with me gives me strength in tough times. I have discovered a deeper meaning of love through friendship. I am not alone in my struggles and other people need to know that too. Isolation suffocates the soul.
You have value and potential whether people realize it or not
You will never be fulfilled by the praise of others. True fulfillment comes through acceptance and not through harsh criticism of oneself. Take the limits off of yourself, defy your current circumstances, and allow God to surprise you. We often allow what we are not to dictate our path and decisions because we fear embarrassment. I’m learning daily to press into what I have, and allow the grace of God to fill what I am not, because I know that will bring me where I need to be.
Perfect Love Casts out Fear
Unlike most fairy tales, what saved the day was not the kiss of a romantic love interest, but Ana’s willingness to give her life to save her sister Elsa from execution. This saved not only she and her sister, but also the entire kingdom. I couldn’t help but think of Jesus then. This sacrificial love unfroze Ana’s heart and gave Elsa the ability to see the beauty of her gift in the same way God softens our hearts and enlightens us to the beauty of our purpose through Jesus Christ.
Through the lens of the unconditional love of God, I am able to see beyond the clouds of uncertainty in my current situation, to see my purpose clearly. There is new grace and mercy everyday waiting for me to receive it. God is love and His love is infinite, and I look forward to the lifelong quest of discovering and growing in His infinite love for me, and His purpose for my life by Letting Go!
Love and Light,
K.Love