BURN THE SHIPS

Legend has it that the Spanish explorer Hernan Cortez burned the ships that brought them to Mexico in the year 1519. He didn’t want his crew to retreat if the going got rough. They had no choice but to conquer the new land or die trying. To burn your ships has become a metaphor for not retreating, but to move forward in a new direction no matter what the future may hold.

Many of us when the going gets tough, we think about going back to a place that is comfortable and safe. however, each time we retreat we are no longer growing. To grow spiritually, mentally, and physically, we need to continue to challenge ourselves, and continue to move forward.

It takes courage, mental and emotional strength to move into unchartered waters. It takes us out of our comfort zone, and we learn to become familiar in areas that seem foreign to us. This is where we take baby steps and keep moving forward. Growth is a continuing process and as long as we keep growing, we are moving forward and not regressing.

If we stop growing we stagnate, and begin dying. Like a tree needs water to continue to grow, we need to nourish our soul, our body, mind, and spirit to also continue growing. If we stop, we also stagnate, and begin dying. The stagnation is gradual and usually takes years. It isn’t noticeable year in and year out, but in the end it becomes very evident that you and I have stopped growing.

Of course the solution is very simple. You commit your life to a higher calling and a Higher Power. The only true way too continue spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally is to surrender your life to a Higher Power. For me, it is Jesus Christ who upon my surrender, takes full control, guides me, and empowers me too live a fulfilled life of love and service.

I share this powerful metaphor to remind us that as we move forward toward new goals, and aspirations that we should approach our lives with renewed vigor and a willingness to do things in a better way. We are fortunate that we have been given a second chance. Many of us have overcome major illnesses.

I believe it is God’s will that we surrender our will to the will of God, and follow His lead. He wants the best for you and me, but in return He expects our best as well. Our future will be what we choose too make it, and if God is with you, He will be with you all the way. What a wonderful life you will have!! With blessings and love until the next time; Godspeed, Carbie out.