How often do you ask for other people’s opinions on your life decisions? 

On an almost daily basis I’ll find myself asking Kierstin (my roommate/conscience/therapist/best friend) about her opinion on pretty much everything I’m doing with my life, and although it probably sounds like I want her advice, mostly I realize that I’m just wanting her to agree with the decision I’ve already made. It raises the question that if I’ve already decided and am not willing to change my mind (I’ve only been called stubborn a couple {hundred} times in my life okay?), then what is the point of seeking assurance in what she thinks???

It has become overwhelmingly evident in my life recently that I spend a lot of time wondering and worrying about what other people will think about the things I am doing. I think some of this is due to the whole being a human thing: we seek acceptance from those who are like us so that we can feel like we’re normal; we want to feel like we’re getting it all right.

It’s funny though, because I totally realize that I do this. I’ve actually voiced to Kierstin after-the-fact that really I had already decided, I just wanted her to support me. If you don’t do this, I probably sound crazy (also props to you) but if you do do this, I’m sure you can relate to where I’m coming from.

I’ve been working on combatting this fabricated need for interpersonal assurance by focusing on my very real need for heavenly assurance. I’ve been reminding myself that the only person I really need to pat me on the back and say, “yeah, you go girl! Good choice!” is the One who gave me the ability to even make decisions in the first place. The opinions and thoughts of anyone besides the Heavenly Father, while maybe they make me feel a little better (as long as they agree with me), are fundamentally meaningless.

~ Side note: In case you’re wondering how you’re supposed to be assured by someone you can’t physically see, hear, or feel… take it from me that he is fully capable of assuring you in the most blatantly obvious ways. Recently I’ve been struggling with questioning the path he has for me. I was stressed about people coming in and out of my life and ultimately what it would mean for me, and once I left it in his hands, he has poured answers into me like I have never experienced before. Prayer and petition, y’all. Prayer and petition!! (Philippians 4:6) ~

I know my posts have been somewhat few and far between since coming to school, but y’all – college is crazy! Regardless, thanks so much for reading! I hope everyone has an amazing time preparing for the upcoming holiday season! T-Minus 22 days till Turkey Day!!

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