Flying Fear

“That bird does not want to eat you.”

Mango squawked his disagreement. Our moody Sun Conure perched on his homemade wooden stand on the lanai, the relentless Florida sun pressing through the screen, even in early April.

Mango had just enjoyed a warm lanai shower, via the hose, and now anxiously watched the dark brown bird gliding overhead. We live near a large cluster of woods, and various birds and creatures visit our bird feeder all times of the day and night.

Vultures often fly overhead, long jagged feathers outlined against the bright blue sky. I wonder if they see our dog’s battered, stuffed animal toys dotting our fenced backyard and inspect them to make sure they’re not potential meals. 🙂

But whenever the vultures appear, Mango sets up a loud cry, his purring warning cackle followed by loud squawks. No matter if I stand beside him and reassure him, scratch his head, or offer to hold him (all on the lanai), he’s done. He wants inside, soaking wet or not.

His fear of the huge birds overwhelms him to the point he can’t function, despite the fact that I’m right there, vultures don’t eat live animals, and he’s safe inside the screened lanai.

Fear. 

Fear has a big place in my life. Too big, at times. I detest it because I’m familiar with its crippling hold on my heart and actions. How many times has it held me back from stepping out to obey the Lord in something outside my comfort zone, or kept me from trying something new.

Fear keeps us frozen in place, or running backward. And that’s the opposite of God’s plans for us.

I appreciate 2 Timothy so much. The Apostle Paul’s words to young, beloved son in the Lord Timothy have kept fear at bay many times in my life.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (1:7) 

If you have vultures flying overhead–know they’re not a threat. Don’t be fearful.

You’re already protected under the shadow of the Almighty, believers. You are privileged to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. ❤ And that’s the best place to be. 

Meanwhile, On Cloud 9…

So this thing happened over the weekend. This amazing thing that all writers dream of.

For years I’ve prayed for the right agent. God has held me back in a couple of circumstances, telling me no when I didn’t want that answer. Or keeping doors shut I thought I wanted open.

Meanwhile He kept me moving forward, writing more stories, exploring different genres, learning the craft so I can help other writers.

{I LOVE THAT PART!} 

And now I am beyond grateful to sign with Ali Herring of Spencerhill Associates. Ali read my contemporary romance and sent an incredibly gracious and enthusiastic offer of representation that spoke to my heart and answered my prayers.

I’m so thrilled! And grateful beyond words. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this story and my other stories, and to partner with Ali to share them with the world.

On a funny note, when I was planning the signing picture, I wanted to wear my purple, “Please Go Away, I’m Writing” t-shirt from my wonderful parents.

But when Trev took the picture, it mostly just looked like my t-shirt said “Please Go Away.” 🙂 So we nixed that one. 🙂

Hugs & hearts & chocolate & love & more hugs & my deepest appreciation to my family and writer friends who’ve encouraged, prayed, listened, critiqued, read, shared, hugged, and cared. God walked me through a long valley to get to this point, and I’m realizing the view is just as beautiful in the valley (right beside HIM) as it is on the mountaintop.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. (Prov. 3:5 & 6)