Today’s Post Written By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
Before we left on our trip to New Smyrna Beach, my husband Gerry had to remind the Communion Coordinator that he was not going to be there for the next two Sundays. One of the guys who Gerry serves communion with overheard the conversation and mentioned that he and his family were going to be on vacation during that same time. They had plans to go to Orlando, Florida for the first part of the week but wanted to spend a couple of days at a nearby beach. Gerry recommended New Smyrna Beach and even suggested that we get together with them at some point.
You have to know something about my husband. He is one of the friendliest guys you will ever meet. The word stranger is not part of his vocabulary. Although I am quiet and reserved by nature, Gerry is the complete opposite. He will start up a conversation with anyone. And I do mean anyone. I suppose it’s a good thing that his career is in sales.
When Gerry began to explain how Steve and his family (who I didn’t know at all) were coming to New Smyrna to spend some time with us, my insides started churning. This was way out of my comfort zone. Really? We were supposed to share a part of our vacation with complete strangers?
I knew Gerry was doing the right thing by inviting them to spend time with us, but I was very nervous about the whole thing. Anxious thoughts kept floating around in my mind, thoughts like: What if his wife and I don’t click? What if our time together is awkward? After all, they were bringing a family of six, but it was just Gerry and me.
As the day drew closer, I became more and more anxious but didn’t share my feelings with anyone. Like I said before, deep down I knew Gerry was doing the right thing and I just needed to get over it. So I did what I always do when I’m stressing about something. I went to God and asked Him to calm my fears and give me courage to step out of my comfort zone.
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” (Proverbs 29:25)
Although I had originally dreaded the whole experience, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Not a single one of my fears had materialized. Steve’s wife was a sweetheart, very friendly, and their kids were such a joy to be around, a true blessing. We never felt like a fifth wheel. In fact, we had a great time and grew very fond of their family.
Afterwards, I shared with Gerry how grateful I was for the time we had spent with our newfound friends, but I also confessed the feelings I had been experiencing beforehand. He wasn’t surprised by my admission (after twenty-nine years of marriage he knows me pretty well) but he was glad to know that I didn’t allow my fears to paralyze me.
The experience was yet another reminder that I need to step out of my comfort zone more often. I’m learning that getting uncomfortable almost always brings about positive growth.
“For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” (Isaiah 41:13)
