Moving On-Ward

I am either asking you for permission or entreating you to come along with me as I possibly pivot. Blogging, in its early form and intent, was almost like a public journal. However, as the public's appetite evolved, in many spaces blogging turned to vlogging; so unique a craft that the word 'vlogging' still generates a grammatical without uplifted commas. The advent of TikTok, Reels, and Stories has solidified the micro attention span that everyone is battling for on social media. Asking someone to read beyond a paragraph is sometimes too much so if you're reading on, I thank you :-).

Where do those of us who enjoy writing, whether as an author or a reader, go? More importantly, where do I place this love for art with words, in the ever-dwindling time slots available for people's attention? I almost wallowed in the pool of "yet another Sunday without an article" today, so here we are together at this late hour.

For example, I have refused to download or view TikTok because, like many of you, I decided some time ago to be intentional with the time that I have. I decided (although two kids under 3 easily decide for you, that which gets the lion's share of your time) to give this exhaustive resource of time to the things that will reap long-term rewards in memories with my family and friends, health in my body and fulfillment in my life, as I choose the things that bring the most joy.

Which road do I take? Do I move on or move onward, doing what I love as often as I possibly can while knowing that it will be sporadic and inconsistent at best? What does God want me to do? Not only do I believe that God gives me this platform to help and heal hurting souls, but I also enjoy this craft that positions inflection (love), reflection (encouragement) and projection (support).

Sometimes I can't even say why I keep pressing on with my writing, but I know that I should. I haven't tried to grow my audience or build the brand, and over the past five years of its existence, and many major life changes for me, ImaniBlog has evolved. Yet, those who choose consistency against the forcefulness of change, I salute you!

If you, too, are in a season where you are reassessing an area of your life; it could be a relationship, job/career, friendship, or ministry, then you are in good company. Life is constantly changing, and sometimes we must evolve and go where it leads us or hold the sail as the winds pick up.

In my questioning, discovery, or rediscovery, and as I contemplate what's next, maybe you can also ask yourself some important questions.

• Is the thing God called me to do then still what He needs now?

• Is this a season to move on or onward (persevere)?

• Am I more committed to the 'thing' than doing what God is asking of me now?

• When last have I inquired of the Lord for what He needs me to be or do?

• Am I listening for an answer?

• Am I being obedient when He answers?

• Is familiarity stifling newness and growth?

• Am I brave enough to be more than just one thing or just one place?

• Am I honest about my fear of newness or change?

• What are the benefits of moving on or onward?

• Is my identity and worth wrapped up in this 'thing'?

  
  

Today I'm holding the sails and braving the winds of mothering, health, friendships and family. Honestly, my plate is very full, and the temptation to take these publications off it comes and goes. However, while I wait and navigate all those questions, I'll continue to do my best to reach you with all the love, encouragement, and support that I desire to share with the world. For the love of you, the love of writing and walking in obedient purpose, I'll move Onward!

Love Ya!

Krystal Baynes-Hoseinee

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