The other day , we had a family meeting during which we discussed courage. I have a few thoughts I would like to share about courage but first I would like to take an inventory of "The Wellness Moment".

If you are interested in laughing, you might read thoughts on chocolate or toilet plungers.  Also, you might check out a classic wellness poem called "The Healthiest Couple" or read one of my originals called "The Ballad of Margeret O'Grady". Finally, you simply must view a laughing baby video that will have you giggling within 5 seconds.

Check this out if you are interested in thoughts on the definition of Wellness or in the future of Wellness or in some of my favorite wellness quotes.

Deep thoughts on happiness or priorities or the heart of young women or what it means to "Be covered".  You might also be interested in a tribute to those who lost their lives in a plane crash at Oklahoma State University.

Lastly, you my be interested in a discussion of Cosmic Connective Tissue part 1, part 2, or an example of the amazing coincidence.

Courage

I used to think that only people who did outwardly brave things had courage. I thought courage was only demonstrated by soldiers, firefighters, and law enforcement personnel who had bravery coursing in their veins. 

I now have a much broader vision of courage. My vision has been shaped by watching people perform incomparable acts of bravery in silent chambers where the world could not watch. Here are some of the things I now believe about courage.

I believe that takes courage to choose a given course of action when nobody else but you thinks it is correct. I believe it takes courage to speak up for convictions when you know you will be ridiculed, called intolerant, or labeled a fanatic.

I believe it takes courage and tact to exercise courage but with consideration for the feelings of others.

I believe it takes real courage to admit that you are wrong. It takes huge courage to change unproductive behavior. It takes courage to create new, healthy and productive habits.  It takes unspeakable courage to forgive.

I believe it takes courage to parent children. Even more to do it by oneself.

I believe it takes courage to live with a disability. 

I believe it takes courage to go without television for a week... but we did and it was awesome.

I believe it takes courage to face the world with a smile on your face when the world has given you no reason to smile. 

I believe it takes supreme courage to admit you are afraid but to continue forward despite your fear.

May your heart be sprinkled with "courage dust" tonight as you sleep.

Here is to courage!