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{"id":12246,"date":"2017-01-07T04:40:34","date_gmt":"2017-01-07T12:40:34","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.strategicmonk.com\/?p=12246"},"modified":"2017-01-07T04:40:34","modified_gmt":"2017-01-07T12:40:34","slug":"taking-next-first-step","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.patheos.com\/blogs\/strategicmonk\/2017\/01\/07\/taking-next-first-step\/","title":{"rendered":"Taking Our Next First Step"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<\/head>

$\"\"$ <\/a><\/p>\n

Every step is a new beginning.<\/p>\n

Starting each new year, each new day, even getting out of bed each morning, we take a first step. We think things through, assess the risks, make a decision, and prepare to act. Sometimes we need to overcome fear or reluctance, or reassure ourselves we have chosen\u00a0well. There are times when we need to learn more, gain strength, convince ourselves we are prepared. Each time, we arrive at\u00a0the point when we are ready\u00a0to take our first step.<\/p>\n

We have taken first steps before. Each step has its own challenges, its own obstacles, its own rewards. It is true, we do not need to see the whole staircase to take the first step. We overcome inertia; we build momentum. Each first step leads to a second and a third, each series of steps becomes walking forward.<\/p>\n

Whether we spring into action or drag ourselves out of our chairs, each first step is in the right direction. Even when we decide to change our direction, our first step moves us forward. When we turn a corner, pause to find our bearings, or even turn around, we take another first step.<\/p>\n

Our path is not usually laid out for us, and\u00a0may be difficult to see. Many of the best paths do not reveal themselves to us until we have already begun walking. There is a great deal riding on those\u00a0first steps of ours.<\/p>\n

Our lives are filled with first steps. Spiritual life draws us to take a step, and we begin our journey. Taking our first steps\u00a0requires courage and understanding.<\/p>\n

We close our eyes, take a deep breath, and take a step.<\/p>\n

Where will our next first step take us?<\/p>\n

Are we\u00a0ready to take our next first step?<\/p>\n

[Image by\u00a0zoxcleb<\/a><\/strong>]<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"