The Narrow Path

4 Gentle Reminders When Choosing the Unfamiliar

“Fina Inmigración tiene a Martin.”

(Fina Immigration has Martin)

I will never forget the way my soul left my body as my mom’s words fell into my ears.

It was my first year of college and while I prepared for summer camp, my mom frantically called me, telling me that my dad was in custody of immigration.

At eighteen years old I was given the choice to move to the Dominican Republic
with my parents or figure things out on my own in America.

The uncertainty of the situation weighed heavy on my young shoulders, as I wrestled with the decision. The safe path offered comfort in the presence of family, but also meant leaving behind the life I had built in America.

Opting for the unknown, I found myself homeless at eighteen, relying on sheer determination to survive. Fortunately, my best friend's family provided refuge, leaving me to grapple with life's challenges amidst overwhelming uncertainty.

At the time, I couldn't comprehend why this had to be part of my story, and to this day, I still struggle to understand. There will never be a "brighter side" to such a traumatic loss, yet in the midst of losing, there were unexpected gains.

Choosing the unfamiliar path led to opportunities for trust, self-discovery, and independence in a land that was both intimidating and full of promise.

Recently, I've been at a crossroads, faced with unfamiliar choices and torn between safety and discomfort. While I fear the unknown and cannot predict tomorrow,
I hold onto the trust that all things will work together for my good, even if they don't feel good right now (Romans 8:28).

I am trusting that all things will work together for my good even if things don’t feel good right now.

I took comfort in the familiar for so long because it was easy. Ignoring, avoiding, and hiding from life's complexities seemed simpler.

Now, I'm realizing that sometimes, the easiest path can hinder personal growth.

Whether it’s a job, relationships, pursuing a dream you’ve ignored for a long time, there will be moments where our heart muscles will be stretched.
Moments where it would be easier to stay quiet and/or walk away.
But, just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s wrong,
and just because it’s easy doesn’t mean it’s right.

Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s wrong,
and just because it’s easy doesn’t mean it’s right.

Today, as I stand on the verge of new beginnings, I carry with me the courage forged on the challenging path, holding on to this gentle reminder.

Cuidate: An ode to Soul Care

Words found in the Cuídate: An Ode to Soul Care

1. Stand Firm
   
   Not everyone will comprehend your journey or endorse your decisions.
   
   It's essential to stand firm in your truth amidst lackluster support and discouragement. Your journey and your truth are yours. Even if you don't understand "why," remember that all things will work together for your good, even if it doesn't feel good right now.