A Word About Courage

I wanted to take a minute to talk about courage. Last week, I booked my airfare reservations. Something about putting the non-refundable tickets on my credit card made it real, not just part of my imagination. The commitment has been made and I'll admit, it's scary. Once you make a stand for something you believe in, there's no turning back. There's no safety net, no way to say, "Never mind that, I want to return to my safe little corner in the world." 

I have received many supportive comments from friends about how the decision to take this trip is courageous. I am thankful for them all, because it's this encouragement that keeps me going. I'm also incredibly touched and inspired by their own acts of courage they've shared. Such as: 

• Theresa who decided it was time to submit her graduate application and follow her bliss. Go Theresa!
• Stacie who took time away from her family and traveled thousands of miles from her safety net to support her best friend in Australia. 

To be honest, I don't know how courageous my trip is. It may seem like a 'big' decision, but it is no more courageous than the little decisions we are faced with every day. Courage lies in little acts of faith. It is in the heart of actions such as choosing to invest time in ourselves, speaking our truth to those we care about at the risk of rejection, or standing up to jobs, friendships or relationships that no longer meet our needs. 

It takes courage every time we are challenged to believe we are worthy enough to allow our dreams become reality instead of letting our doubts kill them slowly. It's easy to return to something that's comfortable but not satisfying. It takes courage to believe we are capable and deserving of so much more.

But here's one thing no one will tell you about living with determination and courage: it can be a lonely place. As soon as we make the leap, someone will be there to tell you why it shouldn't or couldn't be done. Or worst, those closest to us may not understand or be able to provide the support we need. One of my friends, upon hearing my decision, told me that instead of spending money on my trip, I should invest it in real estate. I've had former work colleagues try to tempt me away with well-paying job opportunities. Certain personal relationships have suffered dearly over this decision.

When you start living courageously, some people just won't be able to accompany you on your journey. And that's okay, because others will show up to join you and lift you up.

Thank you to all of you that have joined me and whose daily acts of courage continually inspire and amaze me.