“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” ~E.E. Cummings
It is no secret that some of the most important, most challenging, most life-changing, most meaningful and most growth-inspiring experiences in life are often ones that require the biggest dose of bravery that one can muster.
By their very nature, these moments require something extra, a decision to rise to the occasion and to step out of a comfort zone and into the unknown.
They require vulnerability and a relinquishment of at least some aspect of our self, and a willingness to hand over the reigns to something bigger and unseen.
And this can make us tremble internally, make our bellies twist into knots, all the while sending our imagination into the wild and into the darkness where we see potential danger and calamity lurking behind every turn.
And so these moments in our lives take real internal courage, and a desire to go forward even when a longed for outcome is far from guaranteed.
You see, at every turn in life at least some measure of courage is absolutely necessary, as every moment, every experience, has the potential to be an important, meaningful, and change-inspiring one.
It takes courage for one to speak their heart to a loved one when there has been a subtle rift, or a slow leak that has begun deflating a relationship, and it is in need of care and repair.
It takes courage for one to leave familiar work behind to venture into something new that requires a learning curve, and time coupled with patience to build.
It takes courage for one to ask for what one needs—emotionally, spiritually, and physically—when misunderstanding and defense is always a possible result.
It takes courage for one to publicly share their heart and their feelings, for fear of ridicule and unkindness in response.
It takes courage for one to speak the truth of who they are in the present moment of their life, when who they are looks so very different from whom they've been for so very long.
It takes courage to pick up and start again in some way, be it a move, or a new relationship, or a new job, when the “new” feels so very foreign.
It takes courage to welcome a new child into one's life, or to release into the wild a child who has been raised and is ready to fly the nest to begin their own life, as both require embracing a new dynamic.
It takes courage to trust again after a bond of trust has been broken, and to be open to love once again.
It takes courage for one to ask for what they truly need and want, in the face of potential rejection.
You see, at every turn in life at least some measure of courage is absolutely necessary, as every moment, every experience, has the potential to be an important, meaningful, and change-inspiring one.
That is the beauty of life.
And so, life requires real courage.
If you are to be authentic, it will take courage.
If you are ready for potentially amazing things to happen in your life, it will take courage.
If you are in need of change in your life, it will take courage.
If you are ready to up your game, it will take courage.
If you are longing to realize your potential and learn your true purpose, it will take courage.
The good news is, each of us have been endowed with a generous measure of courage, but it does require us to activate it by taking that step out of our comfort zone, even if trembling all the while.
Taste what's good and pass it on.
Ingrid
“From The Heart” is a space for me to share some of my more personal thoughts on life. Here you'll find my reflections on my own inner/spiritual journey; on being a wife and mother; on being a creative; and general observations, pretty much whatever is on my mind.
I whole-heartedly believe that sharing "from the heart" with one another is what connects us, heals us, and inspires us! Glad you're here...
Marian McClellan
Thank for reminding me of how much that we do in our lives requires courage. I will read this often as a personal reminder to live with more intention and with courage. I am in my seventies now, and I remember telling myself to "feel the fear, and do it anyway".
The Cozy Apron
Marian, thanks so very much for sharing your thoughts on this post, and sharing a little about yourself, personally.
Everyday requires at least some measure of courage, and your motto "feel the fear and do it anyway" is one that I will keep close to my own heart.
Beautiful!
Carolinn
Ingrid, I just wanted to tell you that your recipes are a delight to get in my mailbox,and I look forward to seeing delicious home cooking. As well your blogs are very deep and I embrace them as food for my spirit....thank you your words carry wisdom and understanding, you are blessed.
The Cozy Apron
Carolinn, how very kind of you! I appreciate your comment so very much.
I am honored to have you as a reader, and knowing that the recipes and personal posts that I share here have a resonance with you means so very much to me.
Here's to having both your belly and your soul warmed by the "food" you receive here!
Roseanne
Yes! Yes! Yes! What a beautiful entry this is, Ingrid. I think courage is one of those traits that we don't often recognize in ourselves and others. And just as important, I think, is to let the other know how they embody these acts of courage. What a beautiful, life-giving world it is when we honor this in each other.
Sending love.
The Cozy Apron
So true, Roseanne! It emboldens others to remind them of their courage, and how it affects and inspires us!
I also believe that when we step out in courage, it somehow gives "permission" for others to step up and out as well, which is a beautiful thing.
We so desperately need one another's courage and boldness!
Blessings sweet friend.
Brenda
What a beautiful reminder to live courageously and to do the very things our heart tells us to do but our mind finds so many reasons to stay in what’s comfortable, safe and familiar.
Thank you for the very timely encouragement to do the hard work in life so to enjoy the rewards that follow.
The Cozy Apron
Brenda, thank you so very much for sharing your own thoughts and perspective...I appreciate your words.