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“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not loose heart.”
~ Galatians 6:9
The other night our family was watching the Veggie Tales movie “Beauty and the Beet”. The movie’s about a family band who ends up getting stranded at a ski resort and showing love to the not-so-lovable owner Mr. Beet. Toward the beginning of the movie, the band receives a $500 check for playing a show followed by a bill for $498. And ya’ll, more times than not THIS is what it feels like running a business. Although I’ve seen God come through in more ways than I can count, at times it does get discouraging…
The past couple of months I’ve been able to read or listen to “The Magnolia Story” by Chip and Joanna Gaines and “Capital Gaines: The Smart Things I’ve Learned by Doing Stupid Stuff” by Chip Gaines. And I’ve got to say that I LOVED these books! They really encouraged me and helped me to continue dreaming about what I want this business of mine to look like.
I loved getting to hear the story behind the brand. I guess I thought that since they had a T.V. show and everything that they must have gone to school for design. In reality Joanna doesn’t have a design degree, and although Chip has a business degree they’ve actually spent quite a bit of time learning as they go.
I found myself drawn into the story understanding the worries and struggles of a small business on a personal level. The personal sacrifices that have to be made, and the sacrifices made of those who support you. The desire to keep going, seeing the doors open and realizing that those doors were much bigger than you thought. And totally understanding the struggle to get the perfect product photos. Seriously, I found myself laughing out loud and immensely encouraged to know that in some small way they were like me.
Just two people who love God and love what they do. They had a dream and were willing to follow it no matter what it cost them and they had so much love and support along the way from family and friends. Just like me.
As I was listening while doing laundry or washing dishes I was reminded that the world needs people like me. And like you. People who see the world in a slightly different way. The world needs what I have to offer and I have NO reason to cower in fear. Why? Because God led me here. He’s the One who gave me this dream and is opening each and every door that I walk through. He’s giving me the guidance and wisdom that I’ve asked for and the faith to keep walking on the path that He has for me.
I’m excited about what I’ve already done this year and am even more excited about what lies ahead. Hopefully one day soon I’ll be able to have my own Shipping Palooza. An all-hands-on-deck shipping party! Oh, what fun that will be!! (:
I was immensely encouraged by each chapter that I read. It’s comforting to know that I’m not out here all by myself trying to make this dream work. That what I’m going through now isn’t abnormal for a small business owner like me. Reading these books felt like two small business owners sharing their story to help encourage the little people like me. To show us a small glimpse of what could be if we stay the course. And to always remember what got you here because one day I won’t be able to do things like I do them now. Things will change and I need to learn to cherish each and every moment of the journey.
Until next time,
Bailey Sue
My favorite line in this post is “the world needs people like me and people like you!” And may I add-“In my own little corner in my own little chair I can be whatever I want to be!” You get to decide what you will offer to the world, how you will honor God, and how you will bless others.
Oh, I love that! Thanks for the encouragement! 😊