Working through fear will help us in life

Have you ever had a moment when it was simply difficult to put into words what you were feeling? Today is one of those days for me. As I relax, thinking about which new adventure, silly antic, or everyday happening I wanted to share with my friends today, my mind is flooded with ideas, yet consistently wrapping back around to my appreciation. I remain amazed about how two little lives can bring so much fulfillment and joy to a person’s life. Regardless of whether it’s the words, spoken by a nine-year-old, which stop you in your tracks, holding back the laughter, because in your child’s words you hear yourself, or through the actions of the older child, scolding the youngest for a misstep in the same manner you, yourself were scolded many… many years prior, the gift it seems is in the journey.

As we embark upon this week’s article, I am reminded of a modern-day meme which is circulating throughout the social media genres… although simplistic, the meme is powerful as it describes “The most powerful jewels you’ll ever have around your neck are the arms of your child”. Countless times, this past week, I have been stopped in my tracks over the words and actions of the girls. Not stopped because of angst or frustration but rather pure, unabridged joy. Yesterday was a prime example of this unavoidable, overpowering excitement and love for my children which cause me to consistently feel blessed.

As I arrived home from work yesterday, I was met by Lilli who immediately reminded me that I had promised she and her sister that they could drive the golf cart around the property when I got home. Felling less than motivated to do so, I began thinking about the most believable excuse which would put off the inevitable for one more day. As I conspired within myself in an attempt to find a way out, no suitable thoughts which would allow my rapid exit rose to the surface so reluctantly I agreed and we were off. As I exited our residence, I had to chuckle a little as I saw the girls seated on the cart in the ready position. Riyann was perched on the back seat, taking her place, waiting patiently for the festivities to begin and her to turn to shine. Lilli on the other hand was sprawled across the driver’s seat, trying her best to appear relaxed and void of excitement as she waited for good ol’ dad to start it up. Ushering Lilli to the driver’s seat we were off. Remarkably, the first several minutes of the girls driving were quite relaxing.

It was then when little Riyann took the wheel and with excitement beaming from her face, began the process of driving. As we rounded the corner, I was amazed at how well each girl was doing. Out of nowhere, Riyann pushed the brake bringing the cart to a stop and with an apprehensive smile on her face described that she was done driving for the day. Confused, I turned to the child and asked her if she was sure, and she replied that she felt she had driven enough today. As I looked at her, I could see she gazed ahead and seemed to be fixed upon a vehicle which was parked on the lower portion of the parking lot. It was evident that the child’s fear of the newly changed course caused her to forego her desire to be behind the steering wheel and simply resign herself to not taking the risk. Recognizing this face caused me to encourage the child to continue onward. With a little encouragement Riyann started driving again, ever so cautiously as she conquered her fear of the new rock in her path, overcoming adversity, and simply feeling the enjoyment of new experiences.

A sense of pride came over me as I tagged along with the girls as they sharpened their golf cart driving skills. What made the afternoon even better was the fact that unlike the other times, I felt no fear. Allowing myself to give in and take part, leading the girls as they improve their skills not only enhanced their experience but also allowed me to tag along while their confidence grew. In life we face obstacles. Some large and some small. The key, in my mind is our ability to face those obstacles, overcoming them as they pass by, while we travel the rocky road of life with those we love. Center on the little things my friends. For when we recognize that we and we alone are major influences relating to our children’s success it is then that it all comes into perspective.

Richard J. Stephens lives in Carter County and is the father of three little ladies ranging in age from eight to 29.