Courage Grows With You
Recently, I have been thinking about the meaning of courage and how it relates differently to different stages of life. The IDG course defines courage as,
"Ability to stand up for values, make decisions, take decisive action and if need be, challenge and disrupt existing structures and views."
In pondering this definition, I started to think about how courage looks at varying stages of our lives. When we are young, we may confront playground bullies because they are mean to our friends. I am in my twenties now, and having courage looks very different now than it did at any of my previous life stages. For example, In my teen years, my ability to control my self-expression through how many ear piercings I got was worthy of me standing to my parents. However, now, I need to utilize most of my courage in advocating for my continuing education by putting my best foot forward and applying for master's programs, even though it scares me. What I valued in every stage of my life were and are equally impactful and vital to me. However, now, I see things through the lens of someone older and with more life experience and a better idea of what I want in my future. To summarize, the concept of courage stays the same, but our perception of the world and our values change; thus, what we must be courageous about also changes.
Now, my question to you is: How has your courage changed? Can you think of an example of how you have grown your courage or what you find worthy of courage?
@fruityCherry7666 As I've gotten older, I think I've grown more cautious in identifying and avoiding the sorts of dangerous situations that might result in physical harm. It started the second I became a parent. At the same time, I have become more courageous in connecting with others and stepping outside of my comfort zone. I am definitely more brave in speaking my truth, even when I know it's uncomfortable for myself or those hearing it.
@fruityCherry7666 hi
@fruityCherry7666 I love how contemplative and considered your post is. It was so enjoyable to read, it gave me plenty of food for thought. :)
@fruityCherry7666
I think as i have grown older my courage has changed in relation to being my honest self. Finding yourself and getting to know yourself is such an important experience everyone has typically in their teenage years but I think I masked that by taking on personas of people around me. However when I grew up I finally had the courage to explore my own personality, wants, goals, etc
@fruityCherry7666
Over the past couple years I’ve encountered situations that would have sent me into a panic spiral before, but now that I’ve faced them, they don’t evoke as much fear and avoidance. I am glad I took the steps to get out of my comfort zone and focus on growth instead of stagnation!
@fruityCherry7666
Your insights about how courage evolves with age and experience really resonate. It’s fascinating to see how the essence of courage—standing up for values, making decisions, and disrupting when necessary—remains constant, yet what we apply it to shifts as our priorities and perspectives change.
For me, courage in my younger years was about facing fears in a more tangible, immediate way, like speaking up in a classroom or trying out for a team despite feeling unsure. It was about taking risks in an environment that felt smaller and more contained.
Now, as I’ve grown older, courage has become more about emotional resilience and vulnerability. For example, I’ve had to muster courage to set boundaries in relationships, knowing it might disappoint others but prioritizing my well-being. It also took courage to start a project I deeply cared about, despite the fear of failure or judgment.
Each stage of life has brought unique challenges, but what’s remained consistent is the sense of growth that courage brings. It’s not just about the momentary act; it’s about the strength and confidence it builds over time.
Questions:-
How do you define courage in your life right now? What values are driving the decisions or actions that require your bravery?
Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge that redefined your understanding of what courage means to you?
@fruityCherry7666 During my life, my courage became bigger. When I was at the secondary school, the other people did bad things to me. So, instead of letting the things go, I tell them that they were not correct. I also end a relationship with my friend ( he is no longer my friend ) He did something really bad and I paid for all he did. It take courage to tell someone you are no longer his friend.
@fruityCherry7666
"Ability to stand up for values, make decisions, take decisive action and if need be, challenge and disrupt existing structures and views."
From what you've written, it shows that you've made a choice to be more cognizant. As we grow, we change, and the decisions we make years ago may not be the same we'd make today if given the chance to re-do them. Courage is part acceptance of the past, and acceptance of our growth path.
