Faith

A few weeks ago, I talked about “Having Faith in Others.”

Today, I decided to shift my focus a little bit to understanding the fundamental importance of “Faith” and why, in my opinion, it’s such a big deal.

You hear people talk about it when things are good: “I knew things would turn around if I just had faith!”

You hear people recommend it when they’re not sure what to say: “I’m sorry you’re going through a rough time. Just have faith.”

And, when others seem unfazed by life’s obstacles, they might tell you it’s because they “have faith.”

Even with the best of intentions behind those examples, I cannot help but think there is little feeling behind the use of the word, faith.

In my mind, Faith is far more than just a word. While I do not view myself as a “bible-thumper,” I am certainly someone who considers myself a person of faith. My faith in my higher power is a part of my soul. It is something I look to each day, in good times, but especially in the times that challenge me. Faith may not have all of the answers when I am searching for them, but it gives me the strength to navigate through very difficult times when I feel alone, and it helps aid me through life’s obstacles.

Faith can give one strength. When I say strength, I don’t mean a physical strength to fight bullies. I mean the inner resolve to withstand turmoil. 

Faith can give one courage. Courage and strength aren’t the same things, even though they are often seen together. Courage is the ability to do what scares us, to act on our beliefs despite threats of danger, to show strength in face of grief or pain. Courage, like strength, comes directly from our faith in our higher power.

Faith can help provide stability. Have you ever met someone who seem unshakable? The coworker who takes a deep breath when the computer crashes instead of slamming her head on the desk. The mom who manages to keep calm, as her kids’ last-minute requests pile up. Faith is what allows us to experience stability in the middle of instability. When life feels out of control, we take comfort in knowing that our higher power is in control. 

Faith can do a lot of things in your life if you let it. It will grow you and allow you to do things you never thought yourself capable of. It will turn you into a dreamer who really believes that with help, all things are possible.

Have a nice weekend everyone.