Lately, I have had the option to accept the limitations, obligations, and expectations of others – or step outside of that box into a place that only I can desire.

I would describe option one as stepping into discontentment. It would be the equivalent of giving away my dreams.

My mind has wrestled with defining what matters. I’ve struggled to pick a desire or a passion, as I have attempted to create a vision for the life I want to live.

Today the heaven’s must-have opened. (You can either take or leave my good Friday pun.) In the middle of a crazy babysitting scenario, we tried to pick an afternoon “rest time” movie. While Frozen was suggested, I steered us towards something a little less overwatched, Moana.

Now, if I were to tell you about my relationship with Moana, it could be considered one step short of crazy. Passionate. I have loved every bit of Moana since it was released. The way they showcased paving new roads, independence, and unity came together to create a spectacular experience.

What made today different though was a particular line that suddenly meant more to me than ever before. Now for those of you who haven’t seen the movie, I won’t spoil too much. What I will say is that there is a scene where Moana faces a battle.

“They have stolen the heart from inside you but this does not define you.”

It hit like a wrecking ball. These past few weeks, months, and even year, I’ve let everyone else steal my heart. That doesn’t need to have any hold on who I am as a person though.

I can’t control the way other people treat me, all I can do is control the way I treat them. The Greatest Showman so eloquently honed in on this concept in exactly 11 words.“When you’re careless with other people, you bring ruin upon yourself.”

As of today, I am no longer a victim of a stolen heart. Instead, I am a treasurer of care. I don’t intend to bring ruin to my people, as others have brought to me. I’m choosing to steward care so let’s conquer the beasts, together.