Fear No More

I have spent much of my life living in fear.

  • fear of what happens if I break the rules

  • fear of the judgments of others

  • fear of the unknown

  • fear of deviating from a preconceived plan

  • fear of losing friends

  • fear of disappointing those in authority or my parents

God has been calling me to a deeper level of intimacy and bolder expression of my trust in Him. I recently heard this quote: “Instead of waiting for fear to subside I have made it my friend.” WOW. The imposter syndrome is roaring inside me, so I turn daily to God, asking for His empowerment and provision. He constantly reminds me that I am exactly where I’m meant to be, doing what I’m meant to do. So…I did a thing.

I pierced my nose.

Why is this a big deal? Because it hits every single one of those fears above. I’m afraid that people—strangers—will judge me at first sight, without getting to know my heart. I’m afraid of how (un)professional I’ll appear. I’m afraid of disappointing my parents (don’t worry, they’ve seen ).

In my spiritual formation class yesterday, our instructor mentioned that having fun can also be a spiritual discipline for those of us who are Type A control freaks ( like me!). While I won’t say getting a piercing is a spiritual discipline, I did take a step of faith in trusting God with a vulnerable part of my soul in my spontaneity.

God has been showering me in His love. In the same way that my parents love and support me in everything because they know who I am at the core, God loves me simply for being His daughter. He is ENTHRALLED by my beauty. I’m learning to love myself as I am, and now I can do things I’ve only dreamt of without fear or shame. I’m tackling that Imposter in confidence!

It’s a journey for sure, but the joy I feel inside can’t be contained!

Emma G. Cartisano

Emma is a PhD candidate at Baylor University studying Higher Education & Leadership. Additionally, she serves as a Senior Coordinator for Chapel within Baylor Spiritual Life. Emma is passionate about normalizing the experiences of grad life—sharing research and lived experience with authenticity and vulnerability. She also researches celebration rituals and cultures of celebration, student success, talent development, learning theories, productivity, and the Enneagram.

When not in front of her computer, you can catch her training for her next endurance event (marathon or triathlon), reading fiction in a coffee shop, trying a new hobby, or exploring quaint towns with friends. Reach out—she loves to connect!

https://emmacartisano.com
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From Neuroscience to Higher Education: A Personal Narrative