BRAVE Chyance By Zaundra Mapp

I can remember being terrified of dogs and just about any other animal with 4 leg's as a child. You could find me jumping on my mamas shoulders if we visited a friend with pets. I would scream and cry and watch them like a hawk.

I cringed at the thought of them walking over to me, brushing past or walking over my feet as we ate dinner while visiting. I could not get myself together. Constantly wondering what the next move would be from that sneaky little cat, or seeing the open mouth of that dog, was he coming to bite at me?

Whew I can remember telling my mama, I will wait in the car while you visit- She would say "Aw naw, come on out the car and be with us"

I did not know when I could ever get over this fear of animals constantly worried about them and never really thinking that they are honestly beautiful creatures. They were not worried about me. They wanted a gentle rub down on the belly or just a hello. I did not however what to give them that satisfaction of course. :) I was more like " get away from me"

So years later as an Adult before I had my kids, I bought a dog. A beautiful Bichon Frise'. I named him Chyance (chance) I wanted to give his name a little flava! He was for sure getting a big chance with me considering! ;)

He was so beautiful but yet I was terrified of him too- I rarely wanted to pick him up in fear of being scratched. So silly of me and then something clicked. He needed me. I had to care for him. He wanted to be snuggled and he had to be taught to be gentle, and well behaved- So I did just that!

I saw past the fear and became brave. I became fearless and comfortable and confident. He never hurt me and I didn’t hurt him! No matter how scared I thought I was, I overcame that- I was so proud of myself and when people knew I had a dog they were so confused. ;)

We went on to live 12 years together until he passed a couple years ago. He taught me so much in the years I had him. I'm so grateful for him being in my life.

I say this to show that we have somethings we have overcame and we can’t forget it. If we can somehow find some of the energy we had then to help us be brave now in whatever we are facing. We can do big things. We don’t have anyone to prove it too. Take your time. Life’s obstacles can hit different season by season and sometimes we have to dig deeper and try to be stronger!

Do not rush though. Take your time! I’m doing the same!

“ Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart. All you who hope in the Lord” Psalm 31:24