Recently, I went to see Captain America: Brave New World with my family. I really enjoyed it and definitely recommend you go see it too. But that’s not the only reason I’m writing this post.

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In Captain America: Brave New World, Sam Wilson, a.k.a. the new Captain America, visits Joaquin Torres (the Falcon) in the hospital after Joaquin is severely injured during one of their recent missions. During their conversation, Joaquin shares how Sam’s work as the Falcon inspired him when he was younger, showing the profound impact Sam has had on others. In response, Sam expresses the weight of his new role, saying, “If I’m not on point, I feel like I’m letting down every single person that’s not at that table. That pressure, it weighs on you, makes you wonder if you’ll ever be enough.”

I felt that.

And I am sure many of our leaders, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., have felt like Sam also. The responsibility of being Captain America is immense. Sam’s words capture the burden of leadership, and the sense of inadequacy that often accompanies such a heavy responsibility. As someone who has worn many hats in life—oldest child, eldest daughter, educator, caregiver, encourager—I have often found myself feeling overwhelmed by the weight of my own responsibilities. The busy schedule, the expectations of others, and my own high standards have sometimes left me questioning whether I’m enough. I don’t want to disappoint anyone, and the pressure of being the first to “bust through the doors,” carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, can be exhausting.

Leadership isn’t easy. Being a caregiver isn’t easy. Being the “go-to” person or the one who “fixes” things isn’t easy. But like Sam, I’ve learned that, despite the weight, you can still make an impact.

Through all of this, I’m learning that God doesn’t want me to rely solely on my own strength. He calls me to seek His wisdom and grace in leading, in being, and in doing. He reminds me to love others as I love myself—and not to forget the second part: to love myself. I am enough, imperfections and all. I don’t have to be perfect, and I’m not called to be God for others. My role is to help others within the capacity He gives me, trusting that He will continue to send others to support me along the way.

Lastly, I am learning to bring my weariness and burdens to the Lord.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." — Matthew 11:28-30