I wasn’t exactly a coward; however, these quotes helped me become braver.
·3 min read
I didn’t ever want to admit that I was a scaredy-cat. But I was, in my youth.
Dive into the deep end of the pool off the highest board? Um, I don’t think so. Maybe I’ll try the low one — you know the one. It’s about a foot above the surface of the water.
When my father insisted I go to his art school after graduating from high school, I refused. I wanted to go to my choice — Pratt Institute, but that meant working and attending college. Sorry, too chicken to take that on though many had, successfully.
I was ready to flex my bravery muscles and leave my loveless marriage in New Jersey for California by the time I was in my twenties.
A new home, job, and relationship were thrilling and a little frightening, but I prevailed. Stretching myself beyond my usual safe boundaries helped me grow into a more powerful woman.
The following quotes inspired me to keep on achieving, developing my skills and advancing into a more daring individual.
1. “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul. “— William Henley.
This quote taught me that I, and only I, rule my life and am responsible for all decisions. I had to face whatever issues I ditched when I moved from New Jersey. Some friends I left behind were not supportive, yet I had to follow my heart and soul— mastering my fate.
2. “It isn’t where you come from; it’s where you’re going that counts.”— Ella Fitzgerald.
Again, this one literally and figuratively spoke to me when I settled in California. I was carving out a new life for myself, and my future was clearly in my hands — frightening but exciting. Courage was indeed mine, proving I left my “scaredy-cat” days behind.
3. “Go out on a limb. That’s where the fruit is.”— Jimmy Carter.
Following a divorce, I was faced with going back to work to support myself and my two boys. Since being an employee equaled working full-time and putting my children into daycare, I opted to start a business and work my hours around their school time. That was precisely where the fruit was, though the profession wasn’t glamorous — it was the right choice.
4. “What matters most is how well you walk through the fire.” — Henry Bukowski.
Divorce is never a pleasant experience, yet this quote taught me that our children’s happiness and security were paramount. My ex didn’t see it quite that way, yet I managed to be the strength my sons deserved and required.
5. “What you seek is seeking you. “— Rumi.
Many years — 50 to be exact — my high school sweetheart and I reconnected. Not ever did I think this would happen — however, he is my husband today. Our stars lined up perfectly — we sought one another — unbeknownst to either of us.
6. “Live your life as if everything is rigged in your favor.” — Rumi.
The first time I heard this quote was when Oprah was interviewing Arianna Huffington. I love this passage so. If one believes it and takes smart and brave risks — aka opportunities — you will create a wondrous, adventurous life.
7. “It’s better to love than to be right.” — Tracey Jackson.
This quote comes to mind often. My first reaction whenever my husband and I disagree is to prove how right I am. This is a silly action to take. I gain a few moments of ego-boosting, and he gets annoyed.
Better to let him be right — that would be showing love — even when I am in the right— peace endures, and he’s happy.
Kindness prevailed, and we were both satisfied.
The quotes available to lift, inspire and help us be more courageous are plentiful. Whenever I hear one that resonates with me, I note it on an index card and file it away. However, these cards are at my fingertips for when I feel I need a jolt of encouragement.
These beautiful, motivating sayings never fail to give me a needed boost.
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