Courage to Live Life to its Fullest
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear itself. We all find times we feel fear, you are only human. Those who say they have no fear, well, sometimes they turn off emotion and common sense. However, we can not let fear paralyze us, then you have turned the power within yourself to fear.
Yesterday, I did my four mile walk in the woods with friends and we saw a bear. While its very early in the season for a bear, it was inspiring to us. It made me think back to many years ago where I would have felt the fear to encounter a bear, or even know one was close by.
Nature is my inspiration, I realized I tamed something that used to paralyze me from experiencing and finding enjoyment. Thirty years ago, I would not have walked alone in the woods. While my dogs with me, give me extra courage, today I can walk and fill the inspiration of nature instead of the fear. It is fitting to have Bosco and Shasta be today's authors, as they are my walking partners that give me a little extra confidence when we encounter a bear. My fearless Bosco has treed, chased and scared off many bear, my protector.
It opens a huge door to be able to explore. Now I find excitement and search for signs of wildlife. When I find the signs my heart leaps with excitement and the anticipation of getting closer to feel the strength of nature.
Maybe I get extra excited to see a bear and think of the feeling of its presence, the bear gives strength, courage, and confidence. I can relate to the bear as I also like my solitude, quiet alone time, and rest. I am at home living on Bear Creek with the bears and nature around me, finding my strength and courage.
Courage- choosing courage or deciding that having something or someone else in your life trumps fear. It becomes a decision and living courageously is riding the wave of living life as you choose, not being help back by your fears.
A friend of mine wrote today, " Life has no boundries, no certainties. Dreams can die with tragedy. Plans change. But be flexible and forgiving and full of hope. Hope does not die unless you kill it". Fear can kill hopes and dreams. Dare to have courage and a new door opens to adventure.
Dedicated to my dear friend Julie