“What’s in a name…?” (Juliet, Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare)
Although Juliet believed differently, I believe there is deep meaning behind the names we are given. In my 36 years on this earth, I have noticed a clear pattern in my life. My name revealed this long before I was capable of comprehending its meaning.
Carlie Shannon McKinley — “small champion; wise river; son of the fair warrior.”
For most of my life, I have battled an overwhelming sense of fear. I never felt good enough to pursue the things I truly desired. I always felt as though I had to apologize for who I was. It is only in the last few years that I have become aware of the enemy’s plot to derail the person God created me to be.
A few years ago, my sister gave me a necklace for Christmas. It was a key, and stamped on it was the word “brave.” She may not realize it, but that gift launched me into a journey of discovery and of reclaiming what the enemy had stolen from me—my identity.
In recent years, I have made it my mission to become a more moldable piece of clay in God’s hands. It certainly hasn’t been easy, and there has been a cost. I’ve had to unravel myself from harmful mindsets, leave behind some unhealthy relationships, and grow more confident in acting on the things God has spoken to me. I’ve had to learn to be everything my name says that I am—a wise, brave champion.
This is not to suggest that I can do these things on my own. The only reason I can be brave is that I know God is holding me in His hands. Confidence develops as your relationship with Him grows. The deeper the connection, the stronger the confidence in it. He is my whole reason for living and the rock on which I stand.
Because of this, I have the confidence to move when He says “move” and to stay when He says “stay.” I have the confidence to be obedient no matter the cost.
With that said, I was not planning to blog—I wasn’t planning to post anything on my social media pages or share my stories anywhere for a time. But as things get closer to my next big move, I felt a tug to begin writing a blog again. I failed epically the last time, and I would rather not make any promises about consistency… But I do believe that God is in this, and as long as there is grace for it, I will continue to write.
My prayer is that this space is not just a place where people can find out what I’ve been up to, but a place where the Holy Spirit can move from my heart to the hearts of those who read these words. I am merely a vessel for the Holy Spirit, and I pray that He continues to use me to love and minister to His people.
From a woman who is still on the journey of discovery, I thank you for wanting to share in this crazy ride. Here’s to this wild adventure we are all on in Christ!
Blessings,
Carlie