We often think of courage as something that shows up in the middle of a war.
Or perhaps in someone overcoming a physical disability.
Maybe we think of a kid in the ghetto trying avoid the gangs.
It could be the mother find a way to leave her abusive husband.
There are so many terrible situations that we humans find ourselves in.
WHETHER BY CHOICE OR BY CIRCUMSTANCE, ONE WAY OR ANOTHER, ALL OF US COME FACE TO FACE WITH WITH FEAR.
And we tend to think of courage as the thing we need to move through fear.
Yes there is another kind of courage that is equally brave.
That warrants similar admiration and praise.
Though it rarely gets recognized.
AND THAT IS THE BRAVERY TO BE KIND.
To open our hearts.
Heroically being present with with someone and giving them a hug when they need it most.
Kindness is rarely associated with bravery.
Yet it is the bravest thing we can do.
TO BE KIND EVEN WHEN THOSE AROUND US ARE NOT.
Being kind in what can feel like an unkind world is perhaps the bravest act of any human being.
For there is so much in this world that makes us wrong for being kind.
That belittles us for being kind.
And sometimes even persecutes us for being kind.
THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF CHALLENGES WE EXPERIENCE WHEN WE MAKE BEING KIND A PRIORITY.
For we never know if someone is just taking advantage of our kindness or is truly in need.
So being kind is not for the faint of heart.
It is not for those who care too much about what others think.
IT TRULY TAKES A BRAVE HEART AND THE COURAGE TO WITHSTAND ANY CRITICISM TO BE KIND.
And that is a courage that is rarely recognized.
Are you courageous enough to be kind?
~ Sam Liebowitz, The Conscious Consultant
Host of The Conscious Consultant Hour
