One of my passions is Muay Thai (very similar to kickboxing). I have trained with the best of them and I’ve sparred some of the best. I love the thrill that takes over the second I set foot on the mat. Fists clenched, tightly wrapped and dressed in 16oz black gloves, resting near my face, ready to throw the first punch. The adrenalin I experience is exhilarating and freeing in a sense. Fear escapes me as I step into a new Ramina that will face anyone because I am in my element, doing what I love. I’ve sparred women and men in many different weight classes, their size doesn’t scare me as long as I keep my guard up. My guard comes with my hands protecting my face, my adrenaline kicking out my fear, and my competitive nature dominating my opponent. But the second I let my guard down, I get punched, I get caught off guard and I eat a few humbling fists that remind me of what I did wrong.
In life, we have a guard we can put up; guard of prayer, praise, and faith. As we endure this scary season of life, we are overwhelmed by the bad news that has pushed us into a corner feeling helpless. Everywhere we turn we face fear and anxiety-inducing news.
We need to stand firm behind our guard believing it will all be okay. Don’t drop your guard when anxiety and fear attack. Don’t allow peace to become a foreign concept.
No matter how big the opponent or how devastating the storm, your guard will get you through it. Stand fearless amid a world that is dominated by the spirit of fear that has been generated by COVID-19. And remember, we are all in this together.
