Posts Tagged ‘courage’
Serenity
August 9th, 2011
So when we struggle even to accept these things all together, how are we supposed to take one step further and accept them with serenity? How are we supposed to come to terms with the things that we cannot change and do so with a calm mind and a peaceful heart? Although I do not have the answers to this, my birds, I must say that this is where I find it most beneficial to remember that life just is what it is. That it is better not to dwell on these things. That it is better to invest our hearts and souls elsewhere, such as the things that we can change.
Just as the prayer says, it takes wisdom to know the difference between what we can and cannot change. And this is quite true. It takes wisdom to recognize what we have the power to influence, and what we must simply accept as it is. Not only does it take wisdom to know the difference between these two things, it also takes courage to change that which is in our power. To adopt a different perspective, transform how we think, feel, and act. It can take courage to change the way that we relate, respond, and interact with the life that we are surrounded by. It takes courage to look at ourselves from a new angle and reflect on what we might do differently. And it takes courage to actually set those changes into motion.
So this morning, my serene, courageous, and wise birds, if you are struggling with something in your life, consider this prayer. Ask yourself, what about this is in your control? What is it that you must do your best to accept with an open heart and an open mind? What about this do you have the power to change? And do you have the courage, the bravery, to do what it takes to make those changes? Take a moment to think about these things, and I trust that you will find a bit more insight. A bit more clarity, more wisdom. And bit more inspiration. A bit more courage.
Ellie Otteson, MA, CPC
Life and Wellness Coach
The New U Vitality Center
Willmar, Minnesota
Tags: change, courage, life, serenity, wisdom
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“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Ghandi
August 6th, 2011
“First they came for the communists, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a communist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a Jew…
Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak out for me.” –Pastor Martin Niemoller
…..
When I was in grad school, one of my professors said, “Be an activist. I don’t care what it is you believe in, but stand up for it. Be an activist.”
That statement really resonated with me.
For the better part of my life, I have known where I stand on most issues. And as an adult, I have a very clear understanding of my beliefs. I realize that my beliefs are often alternative and rather liberal, and I recognize that not everyone agrees with me. I respect that, and try to remain sensitive to the beliefs of others, regardless of my own. In doing so, I am faced with the decision to speak up for myself and what I value, or keep my opinions to myself. And I have learned that each situation warrants differing levels of silence or vocalization.Today, I encourage YOU, my friends, to stand up for what YOU believe in. To make a difference, to someone, somehow.
Just as my professor said to me in grad school, be an activist. Stand up for what you believe in. Take a stand, speak up, be a catalyst for change. Have respect for the views of others, of course, but do not remain silent when your values and beliefs are put on the line. Because in standing up for what you believe in, you are also standing up for yourself. For your loved ones. You are standing up for what you think makes the world a better place to live.
Imagine, for just a moment, what society would look like today had people in history not advocated for change. Where would we be today if people did not promote their ideas, their values, their convictions, no matter how radical? Had people not found their voice and had the courage to speak out, there would have been no evolution, no betterment of mankind. There would have been no progress.
So, I will say it again, my birds. Be an activist. Stand up for what you believe in. Speak out on behalf of your values. Promote progress. Ignite the fire in others that leads to positive change.
Ellie Otteson, MA, CPC
Life and Wellness Coach
The New U Vitality Center
Willmar, Minnesota
Tags: activist, advocate, change, courage, voice
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