Faithfully Lupe

It’s strange how life can change in an instant, setting us on a new path for the future. If I’m honest, I don’t even remember the last election I voted in—probably back when Bush was elected.

Today, walking up to the polling center brought a wave of anxiety I didn’t expect. For those of us who live with anxiety, we know that feeling—the urge to make a U-turn and go right back home is real. But this time, I didn’t. I pushed past those voices that try to hold me back, that try to keep me from taking action and showing up.

There I was, standing in line with my four kids on my mind. They need my voice now more than ever, and I felt this energy of change building in the air. No matter who you voted for, this election brings change. And change, no matter what, can feel scary and uncertain.

This morning, I woke up with that same anxious feeling. I prayed over it, asking God to be with me and guide me. Praying doesn’t take the anxiety away, but it makes it bearable, and in that moment, I felt peace being handed back to me.

I hope we all remember to practice kindness and compassion during these times. As a society, we could all use a bit more peace—because only with peace in our hearts can we pass on the kindness we truly want to see in the world.

Anxiety is something many of us carry quietly, sometimes never saying it out loud. But maybe we don’t always need to speak of it aloud. Let’s lift it up to God, asking Him to take what we need from us and replace it with what we long for.

As I got closer to the front of the line, my stomach started to turn, and I thought, “I really shouldn’t have scarfed down that Famous Star cheeseburger!” 😂 I don’t know why, but in that moment, I also felt this wave of emotion come over me. I could feel tears building up, and I hate crying. I’ll fight back tears so hard if I have to—maybe because I’ve been through seasons in life where I’ve shed more than enough. I’ve gotten pretty good at holding them back, and that’s exactly what I was doing now.

But no, I wasn’t going to let my emotions or any lingering negative thoughts get the best of me. I took a deep breath, said a quiet prayer, and walked up to check in. I was here for a purpose, and I was determined to see it through.

When I cast my vote and watched that ballot feed in, seeing the counter change from 601 to 602 made me feel powerful. It was a reminder that my voice matters, and it felt good to contribute, not just for myself but for my family and our future.

Stepping outside afterward, the fresh air hit my face, and I felt free—free from the anxiety, free to use my voice, free to share this moment with my kids. And then, I had this sudden urge to run! Not just to burn off that cheeseburger, but to release any anxiety left in me and feel truly alive in the moment.

Thank goodness for exercise!

I hope this serves as a reminder for all of us to keep showing up, even when it feels tough. And to mayyyyybe skip on the cheeseburgers.

Staying faithful & prayed up,

Lupe