Make Room

Make room for grace

Deep breaths, he says, as he holds my shoulders
Let it go, she says, because she's never held this fear
It'll be okay, he says, and I want to have his certainty
It doesn't have to be perfect, they say, voices of a world that hides its flaws

Perfectionism is the enemy of peace
And it disguises itself as virtues so that it can conquer more of my heart

It doesn't show up at the gate with swords drawn and a challenge, ready for a glorious fight
Perfectionism sneaks, it cajoles, it convinces
A trickster, it presents itself as ambition, dedication, required excellence

Perfectionism overpowers my loves and fears and hopes until there's no room for anything else

No room for grace

So I must make a substitution, an atonement, a desperate but worthy trade
And sacrifice the expectations of perfection on the altar of freedom

To make room for grace

Deep breaths, he says, and peace conquers fear
Let it go, she says, and my eyes release their tears
It'll be okay, he says, and I recall promises fulfilled
It doesn't need to be perfect, God says, My grace is sufficient for it all

Eyes up
Hands open
Spirit at rest
Making room
For grace

3.27.2020