Faith vs. Fear

Faith: noun   1. confidence or trust in a person or thing  2. belief that is not based on proof.

Fear: noun  1. a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.

Faith and fear have been two things very much on my mind lately.  As I reflect on my life, I realize that I have often let fear guide me much more so than I have relied on faith. This is a reality that makes me sad, but is also one I know I can change.

One area that this truth is evident is in the relationship between my career and in my passion for dogs.  Now don’t get me wrong, I was blessed with a successful career at a good company, making good money, working with people I enjoyed and doing a job I was good at.  I really liked my job.

But what I really LOVE is my work with dogs – the simple joy caring for and bonding with an animal, giving to a dog in need, finding a home for a dog who might not otherwise find one, and the true camaraderie and passion of the people who join me in this effort. 

So, as much as I love this part of my life, I have lived in fear to pursue it 100%.  Fear of what that life might look like, fear of what people might think, fear that I might fail.  The thought of turning that passion into a career, a path, even a life was entirely too scary, too unconventional, and full of way to many unknowns.  For the last year, every time I found myself daydreaming about spending more time working with the dogs, doing good for the community and for myself,  I immediately shut those thoughts down and dismissed them as unrealistic.  The thought of pursuing this passion was entirely too scary.  I let fear paralyze me.

That’s where faith comes in.  I don’t know how or where I summoned the courage but I did.  I made the decision to quit my job and pursue work with animals on more of a full time basis.  So, starting NOW I’m letting go and letting faith take the wheel:  faith in my decision, faith that I will make a difference, faith that I will be successful, and faith that I will create a life that is meaningful and full of passion. 

I have no idea exactly what this new adventure looks like but I am taking the leap, and keeping the FAITH.   And it feels good…oh so good.   I feel inspired and re-energized….much like the inspiration and drive I get from the animals and the people I work with toward this common goal. 

Here’s to a wonderful 2012, my wish for everyone is a life filled with faith and one where fear goes by the wayside. As it should.