"May you speak and act with confidence and use courage to follow your own path." ~ from The Twelve Gifts of Birth

What comes to your mind when you hear the word "courage" or the phrase "to act with courage"?

I have the impression that, for most of us, courage primarily means facing dangerous situations bravely. We may picture first-responders and feel appreciation and admiration for them.

But do we realize how often we are called upon to act with courage in everyday situations? 

For example, it often takes a great deal of courage to be ourselves. 

Today, consider these additional touchstone quotes about authenticity. May they nourish your commitment and your courage to be fully you.

"To live self-assertively – which means to live authentically – is an act of high courage." ~Nathaniel Branden

"Defining myself, as opposed to being defined by others, is one of the most difficult challenges I have ever faced. ~Carol Mosely-Braun

“An authentic life grows like a sturdy tree. And like a tree, it grows slowly. Every time you make a different and better decision, it grows a little. Every time you choose to do the right thing, even when nobody would find out otherwise, it grows a little. Every time you act with compassion, relinquish your right to strike back, take a courageous stand, admit fault or accept responsibility, it grows a little." ~Steve Goodier

With appreciation for you,
Charlene

Use your gifts well and you will discover others, among them, a gift that is uniquely you. - from The Twelve Gifts of Birth