"When the oak is felled the whole forest echoes with it fall, but a hundred acorns are sown in silence by an unnoticed breeze"
This quote by Thomas Carlyle speaks volume in the power of closed doors and rejection.
During times of transition or change, we sometimes encounter a jarring and unexpected sound that can cause us to question our abilities, worth, and faith. This sound is akin to the closing of a door, which can lead us to believe that we are inadequate or not good enough to achieve what lies beyond it. Yet, after experiencing multiple closed doors and rejections, I have come to understand that these doors were shut for our protection and that some opportunities are kept from us to make room for something bigger and better. While it may be challenging to accept this reality while standing on the other side of the door, it's essential to remember that all things happen for our good, and a closed door doesn't mean a closed opportunity.
The quote above by Thomas Carlyle reminds us that when a door closes there are other doors being opened that we are not even aware of and in divine timing it will be revealed just why the door we were hoping for didn't open. And more times than not, you'll be glad it was closed.
It's important to remember that God has bigger and better plans for each of us, and it's possible that walking through a particular door may pose limitations or commitments that impede the true opportunities aligned with His plan for us or the person He has intended for us. When God wants a door to open for us, He will knock it off the hinges, and no one can close it. It's essential to trust that the doors meant for us will be open in due course.
Have you ever encountered a closed door that you tried to unlock without a key? This will require you to pick lock or force yourself into a door you do not have access to. Or what about when you are pulling back and forth on a door to open it when the person on the other side is trying to close it? Once the person on the other side, let’s the knob go, this will cause you to lose your balance and fall backwards This analogy highlights the risks of forcing doors open that were closed for our own protection. In doing so, we expose ourselves to potential danger.
It's time to reframe our perspective on closed doors and rejection. Although it may sting when someone declines our affection, dismisses our ideas, or denies us an opportunity, it doesn't have to impact our self-confidence or how we perceive ourselves. The only way rejection can hurt us is if we already question our worth. It's important to recognize that rejection doesn't define our value as a person. When faced with rejection, we must ask ourselves how we interpret it. Does it make us feel inadequate or unworthy, or do we use it as a learning opportunity to grow and improve? We must also evaluate whether our fear of judgment and criticism from others is limiting our potential. Many people hold back on sharing their ideas and creative visions due to this fear. It's essential to recognize our worth and potential, regardless of external validation, and to approach rejection as a chance to learn and grow.
Often, we spend significant time pondering on ways to avoid rejection, asking ourselves questions such as "What should I do or not do to avoid rejection?" However, this line of inquiry is flawed, as the reality is, the more you become your true self and work towards self-improvement, the more likely you are to encounter rejection, criticism, or indifference from others. Unfortunately, you cannot control how others react to you. What you can control is how you perceive and respond to rejection. Your self-confidence and self-worth will determine how rejection affects you. It's important to recognize that the only way to avoid rejection is to hide away and not venture outside of your comfort zone, but is that how you want to live your life? Constantly hiding due to the fear of people's opinions prevents you from living life to the fullest.
Imagine adopting an attitude where you're indifferent to rejection and unapologetically true to yourself, regardless of others' opinions. It's a liberating concept that can lead to tremendous growth. Don't let other people's opinions dictate how you show up in the world. Rejection is not personal, as it's often a reflection of their experiences and beliefs. It's not your responsibility to control or dictate what others think of you. Instead, focus on what you can control - your thoughts and actions. By directing your energy toward yourself and your goals, you'll experience a newfound sense of confidence and purpose. While rejection is inevitable, living your truth will help you embrace it with courage and resilience. Remember, you have only one life, so make it count.
I encourage you to take on a challenge today - something you've been hesitant to attempt. It's essential to incorporate an activity you enjoy into your daily routine, irrespective of acceptance from others. If you experience rejection, it's a sign that you're living life to the fullest by exploring new opportunities. Way to go love!
Never allow rejection or closed doors to make you feel inadequate, unworthy or not good enough. Rejection and closed doors are blessings in disguise.
