Since Care to Change opened its doors, several people have commented on how exciting it must be to establish a new business. Yes, is exciting, but I can’t say it is easy or that I am always filled with confidence. I thought for a long time about the advantages of creating a new counseling practice that would reflect our values, principles, and approach. But as anyone who has started a business will tell you, there’s a big gap between having an idea and deciding to put it into action.
I can’t tell you exactly how long I agonized over the idea, or how many prayers my business partner and I said while considering it. We talked with so many people we trusted and they all expressed more confidence in the idea then I was feeling inside at times. Each time I came close to deciding to proceed, I’d hesitate, and think everything through again, and asked for yet another sign in prayer.
That decision to proceed has been only one of a long list of decisions. There were considerations about how the business would be structured, where would be located, what services we would offer, how many people would be involved … the list goes on and on. It seemed that each time we thought we had made all the decisions, a new decision would crop up.
Through the entire process of starting this business there have been many frustrating moments. Fortunately there are also little victories along the way. I lost count of the number of times I looked up and ask God, “Are you sure this is what you want me to do?” There were moments when I wasn’t so sure. But the day the first clients walked into the counseling center, I knew in my heart that all the decisions and frustrations were worth it.
As I look back, I realize that the process is very similar to what the people who come to see us go through. They have a strong desire for change in their lives, but they wonder whether they’re doing the right thing. When they develop the courage to call and make their first appointment and walk in the door, they start on another journey. It’s a journey that will put them to the test time and time again. There are frustrating moments, struggles with issues, and celebrations of small victories along the way. And, the day eventually comes when we can look back at the process and realize that all the struggles and all the challenges have been worth the effort. Each time I hear couples tell me they are communicating better, parents explain their successes with their children, and women share with me steps they’ve taken to achieve wholeness, it reminds me that all the work involved is worth the effort.
If you are grappling with the decision about seeking counseling, I hope you will. I can’t tell you it will be easy, because it never is. But I can promise you that it will be worthwhile, and there will come a day when you’ll be glad you did. I encourage you to take that brave step in reaching out and connecting with us. It is our honor to serve you each step of the way.