January 16th - January 22nd Weekly Challenge COURAGE

January 16th - January 22nd:COURAGE-The definition of courage is "the state or quality of mind or spirit that enables one to face danger, fear, or vicissitudes with self-possession, confidence, and resolution; bravery".

This week, the angels have asked us to look at ourselves in terms of our courage.  Courage can take many forms.  Confidence, taking a stand to something you know is right, going beyond what you tell yourself is possible...having faith and trust and much much more!  We are asked to identify an area or aspect of ourself or our lives that we will commit to being courageous...beyond what we have allowed ourselves to be. 

Steps for the week:
-Identify ONE area or aspect of your life you would like to have more courage.
-Commit to facing this aspect with courage during the course of the week.
-Be reasonable with your expectations.  Go beyond your comfort zone but be safe and most of all, rely on the support of friends, family and others you trust to help you through the process of the week!

Some examples of moving outside of your comfort zone and displaying courage in your life could consist of:

-Talking to someone you would like to know better or asking them to get together over a meal or coffee

-Discuss a concern with a loved one that you have not been forthcoming with

-Speaking in front of a group of people about a special interest or event

-Share a dream or special idea you have with others who you know will listen and be supportive

-Try something new that you have always wanted to try but have been afraid to do

-Speak your mind on an issue or topic that is close to your heart

Taking courage means risking exposure to others and yourself.  You may in fact not get the response you hope for but in being courageous, you allow yourself to think beyond what you tell yourself is possible.  I believe you may be surprised, as I believe I will be as well this week in taking some risk in being courageous!  It goes back to the old saying...what would you do if you were not afraid?  Well, what is the ONE thing you will commit to being courageous with this week and put your fears aside?  I have been hearing the Cowardly Lion from the Wizard of OZ speak on courage in my head for days!  The angels have provided me this theme as a way to help me understand this week's Challenge.   Below, I have provided the Lion's words on courage...I hope you enjoy them!

Cowardly Lion from The Wizard of OZ

Courage.  What makes a King out of a slave?  Courage. What makes the flag on a mast to wave? Courage. What makes the elephant charge his tusk in the misty mist or the dusky dusk? What makes the muskrat guard his musk? Courage. What makes the Sphinx the Seventh Wonder? Courage. What makes the dawn come up like thunder? Courage. What makes the Hottentot so hot?
What puts the “ape” in ape-ricot? What have they got that I haven’t got?