A Lesson from Paige

Last Sunday, my daughter Paige reminded me of a valuable lesson. It was to not give up! I will reluctantly admit that I struggle with fear almost constantly it seems sometimes. As a result I will often not do things and in essence become paralyzed by the fear. However, on Sunday I was reminded of something I learned awhile ago, but never truly put into practice and that is even when you are afraid, do it anyway. On Sunday, Paige had a solo, one she had been looking forward to for quite a while. She was excited that she was going to have the opportunity to sing her favorite song by Erica Campbell, "More Than a Lover". She began singing strong and confidently, but after a few moments, she became nervous and scared and began to cry. I totally understood how she felt. It is not easy at all to stand before an audience to speak or sing, so I felt her nervousness and fear in my own gut. But even though she was crying, she continued to sing. She did not stop, she did not turn around and leave, she kept going until she finished her song. She never gave up, even though she could have and everyone would have understood but Paige made a decision to finish what she began even when it was not ideal, even when she was afraid. Though Paige may not fully realize this, and who knows, perhaps she does, she made a decision, a choice to not let fear stop her no matter how hard it may be or seem. She chose to keep going and not give up! And that's what I am to do also, no matter how afraid I may be.  Thanks Paige! You were very brave and I am so very proud of you!