Transitions can be terrifying and difficult. Last year I took a leap of faith.
I moved to Wilmington, NC. It didn’t make a lot of sense, and some people who love me are still scratching their heads, but I knew it was time to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine — to live on the coast.
Walking the Land
Before I make a grand move or change of any kind I take a scouting trip and “walk the land” to get a sense of God’s approval. I am a woman of a certain age and frankly, I don’t have time to go round the mountain again if I make a mistake. I want to get things right. So, in the summer of 2019 my son, Curt, and I rented an Airbnb not far from Wrightsville Beach, NC. I chose the coastal city of Wilmington because there was a church I wanted to check out that I believed would be the right fit for me. As a single woman, it’s important for me to have a church’s spiritual covering and to find community.
The land and the church spoke. I moved to Wilmington and began my search for a permanent home.
Ready – or not
This move meant I would be 13 and 1/2 hours from my family home in Pennsylvania and 5 1/2 hours from my Asheville friends, especially two young boys and their family who hold a huge place in my heart. But I knew it was time, I was ready for a change after living in Asheville, NC 13 years.
But, any transition has its risks and benefits.
There is a Downside
This is now my second Christmas here on Carolina Beach.
I’m still getting used to missing loved ones’ birthday celebrations and soccer games – weddings, and even end-of-life celebrations.
Still getting used to seeing inflatable snowmen holding surfboards next to Palm trees instead of a snowman made of real snow, sporting a carrot nose and red scarf.
And did I tell you the leaves turn color here in December, not October?
But the Upside is Real!
Now I am used to walking the beach and wearing sunscreen in December. We watch our Christmas parade while wearing summer clothes – and drink sweet tea instead of hot chocolate.
My shell collection is growing. I love my church home, it has truly become a wonderful community of terrific friends. I’ve renewed friendships with writer friends and published authors I’ve met at conferences or had as a client who live in the area.
And though I am still living out of storage and have yet to find a permanent home, I live on an island and am a few steps from the beach!
Yes, it was a risky leap of faith
If I am honest, there were days I second-guessed my decision. It was lonely at first. I missed my Asheville friends (and still do), but I trusted God was with me and I know I made the right move.
God has gifted me with new friends – sisters and brothers I do life with who are helping me grow and become a better me.
Yes, there ‘be pirates’ and a few grinches on the island, but I’m starting to enjoy a coastal southern celebration of Christ’s birth.
Are you considering taking a leap of faith in the new year? Before you do, I suggest you walk the land. If God gives you the green light, then do it! Make the move, take a leap of faith.
I love that part of the country. Enjoy!
It’s been fun to watch you take this step on your journey. OK, well sometimes it has been a bit scary. But I’m so glad to see you flourishing there!
Thanks, Lisa. Your prayers have been a huge help!
I’m proud of you! And you know you’re always welcome back in the Asheville area! Just wish I’d have known you better when you were my neighbor! 😉