The other day I was having a very
raw and honest conversation with one of my sisters. I was telling her how I
have come to realize that I hold a very high expectation of people in my life, almost as though people 'owe' me. I imagine that since I have been there for
them, then they should be there for me. Or since I have invested in a friendship,
then it ought to last for ever. But the harsh reality that has finally dawned
on me is that I am entitled to nothing.
If you're anything like
me then you have found yourself one too many times struggling to hold onto
friendships that have run their course, and all that's left is a lot of awkward
moments and scanty conversations. And the more you try to make the relationship
work, the more vulnerable you become...the more hurt you get. It is very taxing
to be at a place that you do not belong.
Some of you reading this
are in relationships that you well know are not right for you. Holding onto a
man or woman who does not see your value, and in order to validate your self
worth, you sell yourself short by pleading and begging them to stay with you, while make all sorts of excuses as to why
you’re still holding on...
But this is not just
about relationships you see, it could be a job that you're struggling to
maintain knowing that your time to move is long overdue. The signs are written on the wall, clear for all to see- so what
are you afraid of?
Do you remember the
story of Naomi and Ruth? Do you also remember the third woman we do not talk too
much about? Orpah? She was Naomi's daughter-in-love, (just like Ruth was). She
loved and served Naomi faithfully (just like Ruth did). But when time came for
Naomi to go back to Bethlehem from Moab, things changed. Orpah chose to stay behind
in Moab while Ruth decided to go wherever Naomi would go. I believe that Orpah was a good
woman, and her intentions were good, but she did not have the heart, the
courage, nor the love to follow Naomi into the 'unknown'. Her season in Naomi's
life was over.
Photography by Mwaniki Will |
As we walk into a new
month, find the courage to walk away from things that have run their course in
your life. Scary as it may be, it will be well worth your while. I can promise
you that. Say goodbye to the seasons
that have ended and a big hello to new friendships, a new career, new and
endless possibilities. There is a blessing in your goodbye!
From my heart to yours,
Kambua M.