“Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver.” – Brene Brown
Courage is certainly contagious. But don’t miss the reality that LOTS of things are contagious. The attitude and energy we bring to this day will be contagious to the people around us. It’s how God designed this human experience. We’re created for connection—receive from the Source, receive from and give back to people around us. It’s how the world turns.
The question becomes, what are you spreading?
Like a virus, courage spreads. And so does bitterness, revenge, fear, paranoia…
So choose courage today.
For me, courage does not mean attacking. It means releasing offense, owning my part, forgiving any debt, and welcoming the Spirit of Grace and Compassion to make me stronger as a result.
Often, the truly courageous thing is the least aggressive route. The route that doesn’t involve defending, smearing, or going on the offensive. If you want to experience and pass on health, wholeness, and the good life, the most courageous thing you can do is to quietly forgive and release.
Jesus said, “Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44) Jesus put the ear back on the soldier when Peter instinctively reacted in fear and anger. Jesus kept silent all night, not defending himself before his false accusers. He knew there was a grander plan. (Note: That does NOT mean being small and denying reality. On the contrary, it means being BIG, and allowing grace from Jesus to fill you and flow through you.)
Courage is always motivated by love or it’s not courage. When you’re around it, it doesn’t make you feel sad, mad, or vengeful. Contagious courage makes you want to make the world a better (not bitter) place. When you choose courage, you’re loving yourself AND loving your enemy. When we’re vulnerable, as Brene Brown teaches, it’s to heal… not to hurt.
Courage is forward motion in spite of fear. For me, that means sharing more of my flaws, failures, and weaknesses—shedding any religious image of perfection and welcoming the power of Grace and Mercy that fills in the broken gaps and promises “strength in our weakness.” And here’s the irony, not only is it good for my soul, but it seems to inspire others, too. I’m sure there are a percentage of people that can’t handle it and reject me (us), but the vast majority of people are honest, or want to be honest, and find courageous vulnerably refreshing and “contagious.”
Instead of being offended accusers, let’s start a Courageous Grace REVOLUTION!