It’s becoming more real.
This whole idea of moving outside of my comfort zone and into a greater sense of purpose.
But in essence this is what we are made for: a life of love and adventure.
Where each day holds significance and the promise of something beautiful – not always comfortable, but beautiful nonetheless.
As it’s starting to sink in, what I’ve committed to do with my words, there is that temptation to recant.
To shrink back, to pretend I never said such things, and to go back to the status quo.
What if I’m missing the mark? What if the risk is too great? What if I don’t really connect with anyone while I’m in this new place? And what if, after a month, I’m forced to return home because of some sort of inefficiency?
But there it is.
I have a home. A home to come back to. A home that is cheering me on and believing in me --often more than I believe in myself. And because of this, I feel as though it's safe to fly, or rather, almost an obligation to do so—to go out and soar even. Which is an opportunity and blessing I don’t take for granted.
Because our faith must still be exercised—fueled by love and put into the throes of purpose. But never stagnant and stale.
There are so many people that I love here in California. And this will always be a home to me in all kinds of ways, because they are there. Not to mention, a string of stories that forever connect me to this land.
And yet, I feel called out in this next chapter of my life.
In the new year, I’m looking to officially make the transition. This transition may begin before then, but February is looking like the month of magic.
And in true Patrice form, I’m giving myself a year in this new place to see what doors God wants to open up and lead me through.
If by the end of this year, in this new place, all feels stagnant and weird—well then, the adventure may need to come to an abrupt close, and I’ll rest in the arms of my California tribe once again.
But if there is more beyond that time frame that is meant for me to be a part of, I will tenderly and thankfully embrace it.
And yes, before I go any further, I know you’re wondering where the heck I’m moving to…
Put it this way, I totally played myself…because last year this time, I was there…and then I was there again….and then again…and then in December of last year, I wrote about how life changing this place was for me, all the while, not fully getting hip to the fact that it might have been a divine setup all along…
So if you want to know the place I’m preparing to move to, read: “Brightly” –Because yep, that’ll pretty much get you up to speed.
And afterwards, we can talk about the people and places you think I should connect with there. My heart is totally open, and I’d love for you to be apart of this new journey with me.
Because what does it mean to create space for a new sense of home in my heart? A new life? Truth be told, I’m not sure yet, but I’m willing to risk and find out.
Meanwhile, I can’t ignore this overwhelming sense of peace I feel throughout this whole process.
It’s as if my spirit has been waiting for me to step out for quite some time. And I’m able to spread my wings afresh.
You and I were made for a life of adventure and faith—something beyond the status quo.
And let me quickly preface: Adventures don’t have to be a huge move, or something crazy extravagant to impact your life; but rather adventures need to be incredibly heartfelt—with your real emotions and heart engaged, paying attention to the world around you, and being willing to learn. Always.
But the foundation of that adventure should entail stepping outside of your comfort zone. And you, and you alone, know exactly what that means and looks like.
So here we are.
I’m brewing.
I’m hopeful.
I’m curious.
And I’m stepping out in faith.
And as I look up at the stars tonight, those same stars that you can see from your city…I hear them singing the song they’ve been singing over me, ever since I can remember:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
Wisdom’s Knocking:
“Don’t be afraid to expand yourself, to step out of your comfort zone.
That’s where the joy and the adventure lie.”
- Herbie Hancock