I have sat down to write a new column so many times in the past few weeks, but the words have not come easily. In fact I just deleted three paragraphs and decided to start over. For me, a lack of words--written or spoken--is not so typical. I was trying to find a way to put a positive spin on my current situation.
How many of us tolerate negative things in life in order to get by without disruption or chaos? We get comfortable with our routine, even though we know that it might not be perfect or even the best situation for us. We take it like medicine...we don't like it, but it has to be done. We do this because we strive to avoid conflict. I think that I was raised to avoid conflict...either that or I have too much of the "patience and acceptance" gene! So, when I do decide to "rock the boat," it's usually of Titanic proportions. Do most women feel this way about their roles within the family? I think to some extent it is true.
After years of tolerating, avoidance, fear of the unknown, and the advice of well-intended people in my life, I changed. First, you can never do something just because someone else tells you to. You have to make the decision on your own, when it's the right time for YOU! You have to be confident and strong in the decisions that you make so that you can stand by them later. I have decided to not blame anyone else for problems in my life--I took back my independence. Now, with the support of family and friends, I move on to a new stage in life.
Taking the good with the bad means making that move toward something good or better for your life, despite how difficult it may seem at first. To anyone facing a huge obstacle, a life-changing decision, or something that pulls you from your comfort zone, you are not alone. Congratulations on taking that step for you!
