Thursday, August 4, 2011

Thoughts On Being Brave


It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.  ~Aesop
Lately, I’ve carried the word “brave” as my talisman to feel strong and, well, brave. It’s my affirmation to remind me that, “I can do this!” when I feel like hiding under the covers. I’m so grateful for this much needed boost of confidence because I had been in a phase of self-doubt with a side of “I’m not good enough.” blues. 
I’ve taken a step back, taken time to evaluate where I’m going and what is in store for me. I’ve been creating art just for myself that I don’t have the need to share with the world. Reestablishing my truths and searching deep in my soul for a safe place to hide my heart. I’ve needed this time with just myself to reflect and look within. 
I recently began Soul Restoration 1 with The Brave Girls Club and thought it was best for my own personal restoration journey to take a step back and uncover these truths that I’ve hidden within. This class has been one of the best things to happen to me in a while. I need this right now. I need to find the real me.
I don’t want to allow the lies I tell myself, “I’m not good enough.” or “That will never happen for me.” to control my life any longer. I know I have so much more to learn as I find my own artistic style but I also know that I’m on my own journey and cannot compare my journey with anyone else’s. We are each at our own place on our own journey and we are incomparable. Isn’t it a beautiful thing to know you are unlike any other and cannot be equally compared? Soak in that for a while. :-)
brave  [breyv]  
adjective
1. possessing or exhibiting courage or courageous endurance.
noun
4. a brave person

So here I am, stripped down bare, and ready to wrap myself in this exquisite cape called Brave. 

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, 
but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not 
feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.  ~Nelson Mandela

I am afraid but I also know that I am much stronger than I give myself credit for. I’m so thankful for all the encouraging support and beautiful messages on yesterday’s Wishcasting Wednesday post. It’s such a blessing to be a part of such a supportive community. Thank you.
Will you be brave with me? 
He who is brave is free.  ~Seneca
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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Amanda, I get such joy from your writing. And this post is so heart-felt and moving. May you have courage, and master bravery over fear.

I love the writing on your hand; I think you should have it tattooed there as a constant daily reminder!

Kim Mailhot said...

I am working on brave too ! Love that my "armor" necklace had the same theme today as your lovely post.
Here's to working through that field of fear and traveling through it anyway.
Hugs !

BahamaDawn said...

i am doing soul restoration also!!! what is your user name?