No risk, no magic

I recently had a 2 hour layover in the Seattle/Tacoma airport; one of my favorites because of the awesome food, live music, and the cutest little gift shop to browse in. I was perusing the jewelry in one of the many cases when a silver necklace caught my eye. It had two little bars hanging from a chain. The words were hard to make out, but when I put on my reading glasses I saw two little words etched in each.

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 No risk. No magic.

Woah. If any four words in the English language could sum up my last 8 years, it is those. I was hit with a burst of emotion as so many memories of the risks I’ve taken began swirling in my head.

​First time trying a new edtech tool in my classroom
​First edtech conference
First time hosting a Twitter chat
First time flying alone
First time presenting at a conference
First blog post
First published book
First podcast episode
First keynote
...the list goes on​

Each leap has been both terrifying and exhilarating, and none were executed perfectly; not even close. However, none of them will be my last. I tried another edtech tool. I flew alone to another edtech conference. I hosted another Twitter chat. I wrote another blog. I recorded another podcast episode. I presented another keynote. And, I would love to publish another book. With each consecutive leap, I've jumped a little higher, became a little braver, and further refined my skills. And, you know what?  The next time wasn’t as scary. In fact, each risk led to...

More opportunities to leap
More people to learn from
More people to impact
More adventures
More passion
More joy
More magic

I admit there have been times that I have let my fear and insecurities almost convince me that I wasn't worthy or capable. There have even been stretches where I've let other's people's negativity and doubt, cloud my thinking and temporarily steal my joy. However, over time pushing past what was comfortable into the unknown has helped me to realize my own strengths and passions, discover truths about myself that I would have never known, and become more of who I was made to be.
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As I look back on 2022, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all the risks I've said yes to that have led to incredible adventures around the globe, amazing new friendships, and magical opportunities.

 As I peer around the corner at 2023, I see a whole calendar year of adventure and dreams that are waiting for me. What adventures are around the corner for you? What dreams are waiting for you to pursue? What opportunities can you say yes to? What friendships are waiting to be developed?

And, yes. I bought the necklace and have worn it almost every day since. Will you say yes to the risk? You never know what magic awaits.