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Moving On

The week marked a significant milestone for our family.  My older son graduated from high school. As busy as the week has been, I’ve also been reminded of my last few days as a high schooler.

The fact is, I was awkward in school. I know now that some people perceived me as being stuck up. Maybe I was. But in my heart, I was a frail, insecure little girl. High school was not “the best time of my life.” I never could figure out where I fit, and my fear of rejection was tested so many times.

As I have watched Wess navigate the last few weeks, I’m thankful and in awe that he is self-assured and confident in what he wants in life. He is ready to move on, but not like I was. Graduation is just a ritual for him. It’s part of the process of moving on.

Unfortunately, moving on wasn’t so easy for me. I spent years trying to please people (a trap I still fall into if I’m not careful) and fitting in so I wasn’t “alone.” The whole time, I felt sad, overwhelmed, and lonely.

It wasn’t until I was unmasked in 2013 that I truly was able to move on from past hurts and forgive myself for past mistakes. When I finally let go of the need to be perfect and fit in, I was able to move forward and move on. It started as a walk, but gradually I’ve developed a steady run.

No longer am I running to find something or a place to fit. I know where I belong.

Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. (Psalms‬ ‭73‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

I finally understand that God has given me a purpose and destiny even bigger than I could have dreamed. The awkward, insecure little girl can now rest peacefully in the guidance of her all-powerful Father in Heaven. I’m never rejected by Him. He even holds my hand to give me His assurance of peace.

To all the graduates of 2023: as you are moving on, remember where you ultimately belong. God wants to lead you into your own glorious destiny. Now go change the world.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.

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