HOW I AM DEFEATING MY BIGGEST FEARS

I wanted to write about something that I believe many people of all ages struggle with: fear. It's not how to overcome but to to defeat those fears.

The past few months have been a struggle for me emotionally, physically, and even mentally. Almost every day for months, I have been scared. It's not the kind of fear that goes away quickly. It’s the kind that feels never-ending, like you are constantly drowning in it. I've been drowning since this past October. October was a difficult and trying month for me. I went through a breakup, my ex got my dog, Opie (which almost killed me), and I had to be taken to the ER for severe pain. These three distinct events have been the scariest times in my life so far. The people who know me very well know I have gone through some very low times in my 21 years of life.

Since then, I have a debilitating fear that I will never be good enough for anyone or anything. I think of myself as broken or damaged goods. I may be a little broken, but despite all my negative thoughts, I know in my heart of heart that I am not damaged goods. During this difficult time, I thought leaning on my family and friends for support to overcome those fears. I was wrong. Painfully so.

Then one night, I talked to my pastor during a church movie event. He's a Godsend and one of the most amazing role models in my life. He told me to turn to God and hand my fears over to him. I did just that. I'm not perfect, but I'm learning.

So now, anytime I feel that fear creeping up on me, I pray and read some of the best bible verses that speak to fear. The best, in my opinion, is Joshua 1:9,

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, do not be dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go.”

XO, Maddy B