Courageous Appointments

“Hello, my name is Katie.”

At one point or another, that is how all my best friendships have started. That is important for me to remember, because it is apparently easy for me to forget. When I moved down to the Lone Star State a couple of years ago, I missed (still do) my friends from ole Virginy terribly. Perhaps you’ve experienced a cross-country move too. I didn’t feel like making new friends in my new town. I couldn’t imagine that I would make friends as close as the ones I already had. I unwisely rode that attitude for a few wasted months.

I was remembering the great friends I had met while I lived in Virginia. I had made some aMAZing friends; friends I will have for life. I sure missed those folks.

And then it dawned on me.

Before I met them, I was nearly convinced I could never meet friends I loved and laughed with as much as those I had from Chicago. See, I was new to Virginia at one time too.

I realized this could only mean one thing: there was an undeniable possibility that great new friends awaited me here in Texas. All I had to do is muster up the courage to break out that brilliant opening line that had served me so well before.

“Hello, my name is Katie.”

Sometimes, being intentional about spending time with others just requires a little courage. And what a blessing a little courage can bring!

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9