Published: June 07, 2009 11:17 pm      

Let the shoe fit!

You’ve probably heard the expression, “If the shoe fits, wear it.” This idiom is generally used in a derogatory way, suggesting that if something applies to you, then you should accept it or own up to it.

But maybe it can also be used positively.

I’ve been thinking about the way Kris Allen reacted to the news that he won the American Idol title.

His face showed genuine shock and surprise, not only because he seemed to believe Adam Lambert more deserving, but even more because he didn’t believe himself worthy enough.

I want to say to Kris, “Let the shoe fit.” The shoe is rightfully yours. You got the most votes. You won. And yes, I voted for you. So believe it, dog!

What is it that makes us doubt, question or disbelieve our talents, abilities and worthiness?

I can still remember all too well my surprise when a certain someone called me (back in my college days) to ask me out on a date. Who, me? Really? I can’t believe it!

And I still recall attending an award ceremony and listening to honors being read about the next award recipient before my name was called. What? He was talking about me? No way!

I also remember being interviewed among many for a job that I really wanted and how completely and utterly shocked I was when I got it.

Self-confidence is important in almost every aspect of our lives and is one that many people struggle to find. We need to be self-assured in our personal judgment and abilities in order to make wise decisions, strive for goals and become successful.

Self-confidence involves doing what we believe to be right, being willing to take action, admitting mistakes and learning from them, waiting for others to congratulate accomplishments and accepting compliments graciously.

Star-quality confidence is well-deserved by both Kris and Adam!

Humility is an admirable quality — one of strength and purpose — and it should not be mistaken for weakness. Humility is the perfect companion to self-confidence.

A modest estimate of one’s own worth is a good thing, as it means we’re always ready to learn more and become even more successful.

We don’t have to toot our own horn. It’s good to let others discover our talents without us having to boast about them. Humility keeps us assertive in the pursuit of achievement without arrogance.

Perhaps my favorite Biblical character that illustrates the perfect blending of self-confidence and humility is Moses.

Remember how Moses responded when the Lord told him to go to Pharaoh and free the children of Israel.

He said, “Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh…” (Exodus 3:11) For every question Moses had, the Lord had an answer.

But Moses had a harsh estimate of his own communication skills and said, “O, my Lord, I am not eloquent…I am slow of speech.” (Exodus 4:10) And God said, “I will be with your mouth. I will teach you what to say and do.” (Exodus 4:15)

Although Moses was modest in his opinion of himself, he was confident that his actions were right, and he grew in his confidence and trust in God each step of the way.

As his confidence in God grew, his self-confidence also became stronger. But I love that no matter how strong he became as a leader, his humility kept him teachable, flexible and ready to learn a new and better approach to his leadership.

So when opportunity knocks or accolades come our way, let the shoe fit, my friends. No need for surprise or hesitation.

God is also with you, giving you everything you need for a successful and happy life. And this includes talents and abilities that are uniquely yours. Believe it!



Annette Bridges is a freelance writer who lives on a north Texas ranch with her husband, John. Her columns are published weekly on United Press International’s ReligionAndSpirituality.com and numerous other websites and newspapers. Visit her website and participate in her blog at www.annettebridges.com and send her an email at annettebridges@gmail.com.