Throw Away Your Crutch

I remember one time I sprained my ankle badly, and I had to use crutches to walk around. Even though the crutches were annoying, they helped A LOT. I was in so much pain, I couldn’t put much pressure on my ankle. The crutches helped to provide support, so I could get around. I couldn’t get anywhere fast, but at least I could get from Point A to Point B.

Afraid to Stop

Eventually, my ankle started to get better. I could put a little more weight on it, and it wasn’t quite as painful. But there was a part of me that was afraid to stop using the crutches. Even though I knew I needed to strengthen my ankle (and that meant using it), I was worried that I might hurt the ankle again. So, I kept using my crutches, even after I probably didn’t need them anymore.

Sometimes We Need a Crutch

This is a lot like life. Sometimes we need a crutch. Maybe you have just been through a painful time in your life, and you need some extra help and support. Maybe you need to take a break from your commitments so you can get your life back on track. Crutches are okay—if you need them.

Relying on Our Crutch

The tough thing, however, is we tend to get used to our crutch. We rely on it. We feel like we need it. We’re afraid to throw it away and stand on our own, even if we are ready to do so. This way of doing life can actually hold back our growth and progress, because we aren’t putting ourselves in tough situations and exposing ourselves to things that will help us grow.

Throw Away Your Crutch

If you need a crutch, use it. But make sure you reflect on how you are using the crutch. Do you still need it? Might it be time to throw away your crutch and see what it is like to stand on your own? Experiment with putting down your crutch, and see what comes up for you. You can always go back to it if needed. But your next level of growth might only happen AFTER you throw away your crutch.