False Reassurance

False reassurance. 

Richard Rohr writes, "The familiar and the habitual are so falsely reassuring, and most of us make our homes there permanently."

I think he is right. 

Why do we convince ourselves that just because it is the known it must be the better choice? Often times we'd rather not take a chance on something new because it might be worse. 

Now this is possible, but my experience has been that it is rarely true. Even decisions that I've made that I realized later were not what I wanted to continue to do all brought me opportunities for growth. When I made the radical move to middle school it didn't take me long to realize that I missed the younger ones. However, I taught with so many wonderful teachers, learned a multitude of interesting things in my new subject area, and left light years ahead in my technological abilities, I would not have traded that experience for anything. 

After leaving the classroom to become a reading specialist, I realized that I missed the hustle and bustle of the regular classroom. I never regretted taking that opportunity, though, because I became a much better reading teacher to the many students I taught over the years. 

Saying yes to new opportunities really can enrich your life. Don't be falsely assured that where you are is the best place to be, and don't be afraid to make a move.