Leaving Home

 Nancy wasn’t in a good mood that evening.

“Mom, I’m going to the beach for a walk,” she said.
Elizabeth was concerned. “Is everything ok, Nancy?”
“No, actually. I need some fresh air,” replied Nancy.
“Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all!”
So, Nancy and Elizabeth went to the beach.

It was a beautiful evening. White sand, gentle waves, cool breeze, and the orange evening sun made it very peaceful at the beach.
“What is the matter?” asked Elizabeth after a few minutes.
“My music teacher called me to the staff room today,” said Nancy. “She said she is really impressed with my singing!”
“That’s a good thing, isn’t it?”
“Yes, but she wants me to perform, on stage, at the school’s annual festival!” exclaimed Nancy.

“So, what is the problem with that?” enquired Elizabeth.
“You know I have never performed for an audience,” said Nancy. “I sing alone, in the studio or at home. I don’t think I can face an audience!”
“Hmm, you see that boat there?” asked Elizabeth, pointing to one tied securely to a dock.
“Yes,” said Nancy.
“This dock is like its home. It’s perfectly safe there. Do you think this is where it should remain?”
“No, mom,” replied Nancy. “A boat might be secure while at shore but it’s meant to sail the high seas!”

“You’re right,” said Elizabeth. “But it cannot fulfil its destiny unless it leaves the dock.”
“Yes,” said Nancy.
“Your studio or your room is like home to you, your comfort zone. If you wish to achieve anything worthwhile, you must be prepared to leave home!”
“Leave home?” asked Nancy.
“Yes,” replied Elizabeth. “Leave your comfort zone, just like the boat must sail away from the delusional safety of the dock.”
“Delusional?” Nancy was perplexed.
“Yes, because even a boat that remains at dock will eventually rot!” explained Elizabeth.

“But what if it isn’t able to battle the giant waves at sea?” asked Nancy.
“But what if it could!?” replied Elizabeth enthusiastically. Her positivity was contagious.
Nancy was quiet for a few minutes as she stared at the boat tied at dock. She saw the boat tossing up and down on the waves but going nowhere.
‘If I have to get anywhere worthwhile, I must leave home,’ she thought.
Nancy took a deep breath. “Mom, I will sing at the annual festival.”
“That’s like my girl!” exclaimed Elizabeth.
Nancy smiled and hugged her mother.

“Thank you, mom,” said Nancy.
“You’re welcome,” said Elizabeth. “Remember, darling, growth happens when you challenge yourself. In any aspect of life, be prepared to move out of your comfort zone.”
“I will keep that in mind,” replied Nancy.
They walked a few more minutes at the beach before returning home.