I collect doors. Well, pictures of doors, not actual ones. When I moved to the Czech Republic, I became intrigued with them. There is something about the uniqueness of these entrances, especially the ones to old buildings. I am constantly finding treasures when I am taking a walk - whether it is a castle or church door, or the opening to a building on the street, they fascinate me. Hold my attention.

The artistry and workmanship behind these doors amaze me. Rarely will you see duplicates. They are certainly not mass-produced. Each one is carefully measured to fit. The hardware, such as the hinges and door handles, is often intricate and bold. A sentence to complete the statement the doorway is making. They can be welcoming or ward off strangers, protecting those within.

It is interesting to me that Praha, the Czech name for Prague, means threshold. Aptly so. There are so many beautiful thresholds, not just here but all through Europe. I have so many of these pictures that I have made three different books of photos just of doors. And that doesn’t do my collection justice.

What I am realizing is that these doorways have come to represent opportunity for me. Sometimes, these openings seem too grand for someone like me. How could I ever fit in? Others are practical - deemed for ordinary, everyday use. Some are broken down and in disrepair, warning us to stay out. I find so much beauty in that brokenness. But there are those doors that I am just itching to go through. The thought of what could possibly be on the other side is too much to contain.

How many times have I missed out on a wonderful opportunity because I was too afraid to open the door and walk through? I was that kid who was always worried I wasn’t where I was supposed to be. Telling others we needed to go back, that it didn’t feel right. Has this fear hindered me from something wonderful? What experiences have I missed because I didn’t go through the door?

I can’t change the past, but I can change my mindset. My word for 2021 is Open and I want to soak that meaning into my being. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. Start opening doors. I know I may open some that aren’t quite right for me, but I will never know if I don’t try.

What doors are in your way? Which ones do you need to open? Or maybe there are a few that need closing. Share in the comments below.

I invite you to read these other blogs about opportunity written by fellow hope*writers. Enjoy!

What if It’s an Opportunity

https://sharlahallett.com/what-if-its-an-opportunity/

Parenting Burnout and the Opportunity to Thrive

https://www.ashleyolivine.com/parenting-burnout/

Gifted Kid Burnout and the Opportunity to Thrive

https://www.louvaria.com/gifted-kid-burnout/

Sleep and Weight Loss: The Big Opportunity

https://www.epigenwellness.com/sleep-and-weight-loss/