Do it Afraid

by Michele Boy | September 26, 2024

It’s the last week of September. I feel like I start every column with I can ‘t believe how fast this year is going.
Fall is here!
 We are finally starting to get into a routine. 
There are still some logistical challenges but at least I can start to identify them.
  Monday morning I was a mess leaving my family. What would happen if I got into an accident? What if my daughter needed me for something? What if, what if, what if? 
I was panicked. But I got out of my comfort zone and drove to Scott City on Monday afternoon to do a book signing. 
I was told selling books is like a marathon not a sprint.  
 Scott City is like every other western Kansas town. People are at work, kids sporting events, in the field, or in their case preparing for the Whimmydiddle. 
For those who don’t know it is a craft fair that also sells delicious baked goods and more. 
 A small group gathered at their library. We visited, I read a story from my book, and I shared about the process of how the book came together.
 One woman had lived in New York many years ago. We laughed at the cultural differences we experienced. 
An example was her shopping at the grocery store and panicking because she was unfamiliar with the brands. I had the same issues when I moved here. 
 It was great to not have too many expectations and allow the evening to go as it was meant to.
  As I drove home, I couldn’t help smiling. Some may think it is silly but after talking about city life and my experiences, I was filled with joy driving home. I love the sun setting, traffic being three or four vehicles vs. three hours of stop and go traffic. I was happy that my husband and daughter were doing things together and I couldn’t wait to be with them.
  The peace that came over me said that I was right where I was meant to be. 
 I heard someone say that the Devil can’t steal your destiny but he can steal your confidence. That hit me in the gut.
  If I hadn’t had an obligation, I might have backed out of it. And I would have missed an opportunity to meet these lovely women, experience getting out of my comfort zone, and having some time to myself. 
  I once read you need to try to get out of your comfort zone two times a day.
  For someone who grew up on the road, staying put is way out of my comfort zone. 
 But I have now lived in Syracuse almost 24 years, married 19 years. 
 Throughout those years, I have done a lot of growing , a lot!
  But coming home Monday night to the lights of small town Syracuse, to my family, and my hurry up, hectic life had me smiling ear to ear. 
 What is on your “get out of your comfort zone” list? 
 Maybe it’s time to get bolder. 
Maybe it’s time to do it afraid.