Move on down the road…
One of my favorite movies is the Wizard of Oz. I like sparkly shoes and the thought of transporting yourself to new places. All the characters are fun but the one that “speaks” to me the most right now if the Cowardly Lion. If you remember, he was even afraid of his own shadow. Yup, I have my days where I would love to stay in bed with the covers drawn tight around my neck as I fear I won’t have what it takes to get through the day…my courage is lacking!
Of course, I love the movies ending where everybody (well almost everybody—Dorothy has to go home first) gets what they’ve been searching for. What does the lion discover? He had the courage all along! He simply needed to BELIEVE! The lesson is the same for me—it just need to believe and keep moving down the road! So here are some COURAGE tips:
BE COURAGEOUS—Do Something For Yourself
You may ask, “What is so courageous about doing something for yourself?” I see so many doing so much for others and they fail to do something for themselves. They may feel a sense of duty, loyalty or believe those whom they love might be disappointed. They may believe they don’t have the time. Doing something for yourself—if only a small, easy thing—is vital to your health and the ability to do for others. So find something you can do for you and do it.
BE COURAGEOUS—Speak Up
So often people remain quiet or choose not to voice their opinions around others. Again, they may fear rejection, looking stupid or a myriad of other emotions. Remember, like the Tin Man, you have a brain, a world of experiences and the right to be heard. If you choose NOT to share your thoughts, realize you are choosing to opt out of the experience and life in general. Say what you’re thinking in love and realize not everyone will agree or understand, but that’s not the point, is it?
BE COURAGEOUS—Follow Your Heart and Your Dreams
Most times you know what you want deep down inside when you look, but you fear what will happen if you follow the path. It may not work, you may lose friends or family, you may get your feelings crushed. All those things could happen and more. Imagine if Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion had not banded forces and followed their dreams! For one, the movie wouldn’t have been the success it has been for over 50 years and I wouldn’t have a character to help me get through my courage-less days! So follow your heart and dreams knowing they pave the way for others to follow.
So, live life with purpose and have courage in all you do.
Photo by Brandon Fick
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