A Letter to Those Beginning a New Chapter
Welcome, Friend
The trees on the mountains that surround me remind me that life’s seasons are never solidified. Every new change brings excitement, but also provides some level of uncertainty. Whether beginning a new job, preparing for marriage, having a child, moving across state lines, or simply starting over, every change brings a chance to trust how God is leading you through life. Not so long ago, that same mountain I now stare at was engulfed in flames, burning those trees into ash. Now, green foliage speckles the rocky formation in the splendor of new life.
The end of a season brings new and exciting change, but also provides a sense of melancholy painted with the tears of a chapter well-ended. It is currently summer, the sun is shining bright, the trees are full of green, and the animals are grazing endlessly. This season— this chapter is full of possibilities; however, there are too many to begin to grasp. Just as this period provides many advantages, sometimes too much of a good thing can be bad. It is when we grasp on to the wrong things that the chapter takes a turn, often descending into a part of our story we would rather forget.
As I sit in the grass, listening to the not-so-distant cattle, my spirit reminds me all too well that it is okay to let go of your previous season, your previous chapter. Change can be beneficial, propelling us toward where God desires. New chapters bring new opportunities, allowing us to flourish into the people God destined us to be. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Trust in His plans as you begin this new chapter.
I’ve seen all too many new chapters from those I love and adore. Weddings, birthdays, reunions, and many other beginnings— I’ve seen them all. I’ve seen the good and the bad, I’ve seen the joyous and the somber, and I’ve seen the successes and failures. My advice to you is this: trust in God and place one foot in front of the other. In reality, this is all we can do. There is no point in trying to control a future you were never guaranteed. Worry only steals today’s peace without changing tomorrow.
As you walk in this new chapter, believe that the beginning is not the end. Don’t be afraid to close the last page. God has so much planned for you and I cannot wait to see His plans. Thank God for His steadfastness, walking confidently in what He has prepared. You got this, friend.
As always, until we meet again among the grasses of our meadow.
Your Friend,
The Shepherd of Wisping Meadow