^{Photo by Kevin McCutcheon}

I’ve been trying some new recipes lately. I like to stick to a few winners when it comes to baking. Mealtimes, however? Not so much fun to fix! So it’s easier for me to try something new — especially if it’s quick and simple. This strategy has meant a few meals have left me heading for a peanut butter sandwich! But other meals rated high on the ‘try that again’ list, so I continue to experiment.

According to Yoda: “Do, or do not. There is no try.” But sometimes we gotta test the waters first, like a culinary test drive. Make a small batch of something before we commit to a church potluck or a family gathering.

My husband Phil will try anything! Whether it’s a new food or a new hobby, he throws himself into it wholeheartedly. I am more of a ‘dip my toe in’ kinda gal; I don’t want to fail, or face judgement. And yet, when I do allow myself the opportunity to jump in with wild abandon, I usually enjoy the plunge.

So, how have I learned to jump into that new recipe, perspective, or spiritual practice more consistently? I use the Sacred Pillars of Truth.

Sacred Pillars reveal four truths. These are: The truth of who I am; the truth of who I am becoming; the truth of awareness; and the truth that connects where I am with where I want to be.

Truth: I’m a really good cook and baker. This pillar grants me courage to step into a new recipe.

Truth: I am open to new insights. This pillar grants me the courage to shift my perspective.

Truth: I am spiritually connected. This pillar grants me courage to try a new spiritual tool.

Everyone has many Sacred Pillars of Truth to support us on our journey. They each provide us the opportunity to set down perfectionism and fear of failure, and give us courage to try new things.

So, for any new thing you would like to try — singing, dancing, cooking, dating — seek out the Sacred Pillar of Truth that supports your goals. Perhaps one of your pillars could go something like this: A good teacher helps me learn. That truth grants you the opportunity to learn from a person, a book, or YouTube without the need for perfection. (Phil often says that he is ‘YouTube certified’ in several endeavors!)

Would you like to find a new relationship? Perhaps the relevant pillar could be: Fidelity holds honor and power in a relationship. Now you know the value of fidelity — being loyal. You know to listen to more than feelings or passion. You know to value peace within your mind and soul. 

Sometimes it feels easier to stay in routine than to take a chance on something new. But if you are willing to try, seeking out your own Pillars of Truth can provide the balance, strength, and courage to move forward. They remind us of our inherent worth, and the worth of others. 

They reveal when your dreams are off-key and when they are in tune.

So, ask yourself: What interests me? and find your Sacred Pillars of Truth to support pursuing those things. When you find them, you will also find the courage to do, to be, and to have what your heart truly desires.

Janice Lynch is a psychic who has visions, sees angels, and talks to dead people. She is also a dedicated Bible student and believer in Jesus. She and her husband, Phil, created The Divine Fellowship church 28 years ago, where it’s safe to ask questions. Janice says, “We don’t care what you believe; we care that you believe. We are here to help you find joy, enlightenment, and spiritual sanctuary.”