I’m like a dryer sheet to a blanket when I find people that are really good at what they do and they are willing to share advice, experience, resources, whatever. I’ll take whatever they are having. I want to sit at their feet, on their lap, look over their shoulder, listen in on phone conversations to soak in all they know. Some may call it stalking, I call it hopelessly intrigued and fascinated with how God made each and every individual in His image but all so beautifully unique.
I love hearing how they became good at what they do. As a kid somebody took the time to help them find what they were good at and started them on a path. I like the pattern of hearing how they had an interest, or a passion, or an idea. Then they usually went through some pain down an unknown road and through grace and hard work and intention they started to evolve. But just when they wanted to give up usually someone came along and told them four very important words.
1. I
2. Believe
3. In
4. You
IBIU zaps away all fear and doubt in an individual. It negates that stupid Satan voice inside of us that says “yeah right, you aren’t good enough, smart enough, or important enough.” IBIU strengthens the internal resolve we have by fortifying our dreams on the outside with validation from someone other than ourselves. We go to extreme distances on our own but when we know there are people behind us cheering us on and people waiting at the finish line to celebrate when we cross that is a beautiful motivator when we start to meander off the path. We are meant to be in community. There is strength in numbers.
But one of the most important things to remember is when the cheering crowds seem to dissolve and the voices of affirmation start to wane, there is always a small, still voice you should listen to in the very depths of your heart. It tells us “I believed in you before you believed in me. I believe in you even when you don’t believe in me. I believe in you. “
Who has told you they believe in you and how has it impacted your life?
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” 6 “Ah, Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.” 7 But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraiof them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 1:5-8
The Rabid Mime 