Small moment in my life that had a big impact.

I still remember the smell of the fresh cut grass as I walked along the path that morning. The sun was just starting to show its face, and the birds chirped happily in trees nearby. I had been avoiding this path for weeks, but today, for some reason, I knew I had to take it and face whatever was ahead of me.

It was August 5th, 2020, and this moment, this brief second in time, would have a lasting impact on my life; as I meandered my way along the gravel, I didn't know how big an impact that impact would be.

I nervously took each step that inched me closer and closer to my destination. My heart was pounding and my breath quickened as I approached the small patch of woods that lay before me. I was sure my feet were going to turn around and go the other way, but they seem to be going against my wishes and pushing me forward.

When I finally reached the edge of the woods, I was met with a stunning view. The bright green foliage encircled a beautiful lake, and the sun gleamed off of the crystal clear water. I took off my shoes and waded in the cool liquid until I had reached the middle of the lake.

I immediately felt connected to the place and it was like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. All my worries, anxieties and doubts gradually faded away; I felt more relaxed and calm than I had in a long time. I knew that this was the place I had been searching for; this small moment, in which I had stopped to admire the beauty of nature, was to have a lasting impact on my life.

I spent the next few hours swimming and exploring the lake, discovering little nooks and crannies around the edges and marveling at the variety of flora and fauna. I thought of my past; the tumultuous relationships and difficult experiences, the times I'd been too scared to take a step out of my comfort zone and my fear of failure. The impact of my newfound self-realization hit me like a ton of bricks; I was feeling empowered and liberated.

The lake taught me that life was a cycle of highs and lows, and I realized how important it was to embrace every moment, no matter how small. I didn't need anyone else to make me feel whole; I had the strength within me to reach out and seize life and make my dreams reality.

The sun was setting and I knew I had to leave soon. I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness as I made my way back.

I may have taken a single step that morning, but that small moment and the surroundings taught me a lot about myself and my place in the world. I stopped worrying and second-guessing, stopped looking for approval and validation, and stopped making excuses; I embraced my fears and made the best of every situation.

This small moment in time, that I had been avoiding for weeks, had a huge impact on my life. It made me realize that no matter how small, every move I make has consequences, and how important it is to take those steps and make them count.

It's been almost six months since this small moment happened and the feeling of empowerment has stuck with me. I still visit the lake to remind myself that anything is possible, and that even the smallest windows of opportunity can lead to big things.

I'm grateful for this small moment and the impact it had on my life. Today, I live my life with a newfound appreciation for every single day and a heightened sense of courage and perseverance. That single step I took that fateful morning has changed my life for the better and I'm proudly embracing it.