Brave

Our lovely daughter was with us for the Thanksgiving holiday, and, as always when we get together, we enjoyed many heart felt, intense conversations.  A question arose about bravery.  Desi wondered what others might see in her to use that word of description when it came to her. I told her I thought it was valid for what she exemplifies through her actions and deeds.  But just what does that mean?

 

To me, being brave, or exhibiting bravery, means the willingness to take healthy risks to move forward.  The brave person is one who is not afraid of the challenge of hard work and of facing adversity head on if it means doing so will lead to a better place.  It often means taking the long, harder road, instead of the short, easier one, because ultimately the longer, steeper climb will reap greater benefit.

 

On a personal level, being brave is the willingness to be authentic ~ to discover who you truly are and be loyal and true to your own identity ~ admitting faults, and, when necessary, working on those things one can change, and fully acknowledging the traits and values that make you unique and special and then using those strengths to be giving and loving.  Being brave is also the ability to see the big picture, not allowing oneself to get bogged down by petty details, and striving for ideals even if those ideals may ultimately be unattainable ... it's the dreaming and reaching for the stars that keeps one looking up, striving, and growing.

 

When the going gets tough, the tough get going ... and the brave persevere.