I find that I am always interested in opportunities and I tend to leap at them before I look! One such leap found me this week being the guest Chaplain at the Minnesota Senate giving the opening prayer! When I was given the opportunity by Rev. Mary Kitchell at Silver Lake United Methodist Church to sign up for the chance to do this, I didn't hesitate because I knew it would be a great experience.
That was months ago, and I heard nothing until last week. I then received a phone call asking if I was available to present the opening prayer this week. Again, leaping I immediately agreed and I was so excited about doing this! I believe in the work of our government and this would be a time to merge my interest with my work.
Everything was great until the night before I was to give the prayer. Then the reality of what I had agreed to suddenly hit me! I would be in front of the senators - I needed a prayer that would be applicable to all faiths and I would have to look my best so there was no distraction from what I was to do. That's when all the self-doubts hit - what in the world was I thinking? I don't have anything to wear, I don't know what to say and I hate walking into these kinds of situations alone. But there was no backing out.
I had invited my niece to attend earlier in the day but she had another appointment. So, at 9 p.m. I texted my sister Robyn and thankfully she was able to accompany me so at least I didn't have to feel so alone. (She got the royal treatment so it was a good day for us both!) Pulling myself together I finished the prayer, got dressed and headed to the capitol.
What followed was one of the highlights of my year! I hadn't been in the capitol since its remodel so we walked around seeing the stunning architecture which helped to calm the nerves.
Finally, I entered the Senate chamber and was greeted by the Sargent-at-Arms and taken to the front where I was given instruction about the timing of my prayer and the protocol for the beginning of the day. I sat for a bit in the retiring room where I was greeted by all who saw me. I then had my photo taken with Sen. Chuck Wiger who represents my area before getting ready to pray.
When the time came I was ready and my nerves gone. After all, I do know how to pray! I prayed with a sure voice, shook hands with the President of the Senate, and said goodbye to Sen. Wiger. For all of it's one minute in length the prayer gave me inspiration and a sense of awe. What things can happen when we open ourselves to opportunities!
When I was done with my work I felt invigorated, and I was ready to try another adventure. Each time I take an opportunity and complete it I feel more complete and less doubting of who I am as a person. That feeling returns soon enough but as long as I keep taking advantage of opportunities I continue to grow and continue to get the best of life I can.
If you haven't tried leaping in a while, I recommend it!
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