Tuesday, September 24, 1996

Courage

Freedom’s just another word for
nothin’ left to lose.
-- Janis Joplin

Life is full of risk, discomfort, frustration, disappointment and outright danger. How do you muster the courage necessary to overcome the fear of moving forward in life?

Your courage depends on what you value, and on what you have to lose.

Do you define yourself based on the neighborhood you live in, the car you drive, the vacations you take, the size of your bank account? These are things that you could lose. If you were to lose them, who would you be then? Now, these are all fine aspirations, to be treasured and protected. As long as you’re not paralyzed by the fear of losing them. As long as your very identity is not dependent on them.

On the other hand, when you value such things as your integrity, your purpose in life, your desire to make a difference in the world, your sincere and unconditional love for others -- you know that nothing can take these away from you. That gives you the courage to live. And when you’re able to transcend the need for superficial, material things, you are then free to truly enjoy them for their own sake, without fear of loss.

Reach deep into yourself. Get in touch with your true essence, and suddenly nothing will pose a threat. You are free to do what is right, what is necessary, what is you.

When it is impossible for you to lose the things you value most, then you have the courage to attempt anything.

— Ralph Marston

Expectations What is RIGHT with your life? next

Copyright ©1996 Ralph S. Marston, Jr. All Rights Reserved. The Daily Motivator is provided for your personal, non-commercial use only. Other than personal sharing, please do not re-distribute without permission.