I have always had a strong dislike for a Yoruba dish called Gbegiri. The thought of it being made from beans never appealed to me because I do not like watery beans. Also, I did not like the way the soup is poured over amala, as I have always preferred to keep my swallow and soup separate. So whenever I saw others eating it, I would think, “What is all this?” But a few weeks ago, everything changed.
I was talking with someone I really respect, and somehow the conversation moved to food. I wanted to go out to eat, and she also wanted amala and Gbegiri.
I told her I had never tried it and explained my concerns. She did not dismiss me. Instead, she described what it tastes like and confidently told me I would like it. She then decided to take me out to try it. In that moment, I chose to try something new and took the step.
To my surprise, I loved it. Every bite was enjoyable, and it was an eye opener. It made me realize how many things we avoid simply because of what we think they are. Not because we have experienced them, but because we have already decided in our minds.
Sometimes, the things we are afraid of are not as big as we imagine. The fear feels real, but the limitation is often just in our head.
It also made me think about how many opportunities, dreams, or ideas we hold back from because we are unsure, uncomfortable, or afraid to try.
The truth is that taking the first step might be all it takes to change everything.
It reminds me of Moses in the Book of Exodus. When God asked him to go and deliver the Israelites, he hesitated. He doubted himself and questioned his ability, as seen in Exodus chapters 3 and 4. Yet despite his fears, he still went.
And that one step of obedience changed the course of history.
So maybe this is your reminder.
That thing you have been avoiding. That step you have been overthinking. That idea you keep pushing aside.
Try it.
It is okay to feel unsure. It is okay to feel afraid.
Just do it anyway.
You might just discover that what you feared was never as big as it seemed.
Light’s On 