There’s something about this year for me, something strong that is inviting me, imploring me, pushing me, even daring me to SHOW UP.
2014 doesn’t feel like one of those years I can kick back with my feet up and just see what happens. This year is asking for much for than that. I could easily set SHOWING UP aside for next year, or the year after that… but the time when I push off big challenging life things for future years is long gone. There’s just no time for that. This year is asking me to get out of my box, get out of my comfort zone, and to be present in all of it.
I like what this year is asking of me, and by ‘like’ I mean that my eyes are extra wide and I’m a little (a lot) nervous.
SHOWING UP is a choice. It’s a bold choice. It takes guts. In my experience, SHOWING UP can be accompanied by feelings of self-doubt. Fear inspired self-doubt… the most annoying kind. Feeling like: Who do I think I am? Do I really have enough to offer? Do I have enough faith? Do I have the right words? Is there enough kindness in my heart? The answer is YES of course! I am everything I need to be. I am are enough. I am SHOWING UP! That’s it. And where I show weaknesses, God steps in and is like.. BOOM! Thank heaven for that.
My first exercise in SHOWING UP this year involves a long plane ride and a few vaccinations. All next week I’ll be in Uganda with Compassion International. Compassion is a Christian organization that works through churches to support children and families living in poverty. It’s an organization I’ve supported for years and I really believe in the work that they do. I’ve got my passport, my camera, and my heart (I’m totally going to need that) and I get to connect with super cute kids and learn about how they live. I’ll be blogging about my experiences in Uganda all next week and I’m really excited to share with you. There will also be regular food posts next week, because I know that we’re a hungry bunch, but Compassion is important to me and I thank you for being a part of this experience with me. Thank you for your encouragement, support, and prayers. You are amazing. SHOWING UP: Uganda.
Fellow bloggers in Uganda include: The Nester, Emily from Chatting at the Sky, Jeff Goins, Bri McKoy, and Shaun Groves. We’re all on this adventure together and our goal is to get 400 new children sponsored. We’re in it!
How are you SHOWING UP this year? Let’s be big and great in all the ways we live.
Sarah
Love this post! I really am working on the idea of showing up as well. Especially when you are new in town it really takes a lot of energy to go out there & build community all the while making sure to keep showing up in people’s lives who live across the country.
Tracy
Joy you really are amazing and inspirational! Your words are true and I appreciate that. Much needed today…thank you! I hope your trip has been everything and more for you!
Tammy
Love what you are doing about “showing up!” You being brave is such an example to the rest of us! Looking forward to your example!
lauradanielle
My first time visiting your blog and one of my own SHOWING UP moments was confirmed as I read! Very very excited about that and also happy to have found your blog. Best of luck with your year – I’m already prepared to be overwhelmed by mine and it’s only January… :)
Jasmine
In our weaknesses He is most glorified. can’t wait to read all about it!
lizytishknits
What an awesome trip you are taking and for such a good cause! Can’t wait to read more about it.
Keia
This is beautiful! I think we should all approach the year even everyday with that attitude of showing up! Thank you for the inspiration I hope your trip was amazing!
Helen @ Scrummy Lane
Wow!!! Can’t wait to read your updates from the trip! Have a wonderful time!
Mary
How cool! What a great opportunity and of course you have enough compassion!
Daniel and Judy
We will be keeping you in our prayers, Joy. XXOO, Daniel and Judy
Kate
I appreciate your enthusiasm for helping people, but I think people in privileged situations need to think carefully about how they can do the most good. What helps a Ugandan family more: a week of voluntourism or the money one spends on the plane ticket to get there?