When it comes to observing courage, I am blessed. There is courage all around me. I’ve surrounded myself with courageous people all my life, my friends and family all are inspiring me daily with their unique contributions of ambition and wisdom. Yet closest to me are the most courageous influences to my heart. Today, I want to tell you about them, in hopes that they inspire you, too.
Endurance and Perseverance: Lessons from My Brother, Tom.
My brother, Tom, has grown to be a large and positive influence in my life. Hopefully, he wouldn’t mind me telling you, he was born with the birth defect Spina Bifida. Although it’s left him paralyzed from the waist down, it’s done nothing to dampen his spirit. For 40-plus years now, I’ve watched in awe as he inspires others through this wit, his wisdom, and his ability to overcome all obstacles.
His life hasn’t been easy, to be sure. He’s often had to sit on the sidelines to watch as his friends go about their activities of daily living. Yet Tom’s spirit and his focus remain on what he CAN do. I believe this is the greatest lesson I’ve learned from him. It has been a life-saving lesson for me when dealing with my own personal struggles; do not focus on what you are unable to do, focus instead on what is before you and what you can accomplish.
Selflessness and Kindness: Lessons from My Mother, Donna.
My mother, Donna, embodies the words “selfless caregiver” and “gentle soul.” She amazes me every day with her kindness and endless spirit. Her energy is generous and positive, gentle yet powerful. She is able to get things accomplished and move mountains in a big way.
My mom has dedicated herself and her life to others; from taking care of my brother’s needs to looking after my father and his business during their married life of nearly 50 years. All this, plus her unwavering care for my father during his illness all the way through to his transition. Throughout all, she never let go and she never gave up. These are the qualities that make my mother courageous to me: She never lets go and she never gives up. These aspects of my mom are infectious, wrapped in a kindness which is unwavering and unending.
Strength and Success: Lessons from My Father, William.
Just being around my father, William, reminded me daily of what it means to be courageous. His strength in business, his leadership, and his special way of treating his friends and his customers were all qualities I admire about him. He was strong but kind, generous, and had a depth of spirit and character unlike any other person I’ve ever known in my life.
What I most admire about my dad and what makes him most courageous to me is his strength. Strength of character and will to succeed were two things I could always count on with my dad. These are the courageous qualities I aim to bring with me every day in memory of him. I am sure I am not alone, as these are the qualities that people loved most about my dad. What most people didn’t see, however, was the way he silently fought for his life behind the scenes. And although he did transition from this earth, he left behind his story of success, strength, and courage which will remain with me through all of my days.
Talk To Me:
Who inspires you? Who are the courageous people in your life? I’d love to know. If you’d care to share, please leave a comment below. As always, thank you for reading and do consider sharing Body Talk with your friends.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Laura M. Turner, journalist, author and Certified Natural Health Practitioner is the creator of the Body Talk eZine: Nature's Anti-Aging Treasures Website. She invites you to join her "10 Years Younger" Campaign and to learn more about living younger, healing yourself and those you love with quality retail or wholesale Young Living essential oils and essential oil-based products. Visit today and begin a healthier tomorrow.
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