Living a Courageous Life

From ThoughtsOnQuotes.com.

"One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest." -Maya Angelou, American Poet, Actress and Civil Rights Leader, Maya Angelou books//

Everyone has the potential to be courageous. Some learn how to make courage an habitual behavior, taking risks on a daily basis and, seemingly, living a daring life without fear. Others might call this constant risk-taking stupidity more than courage, but facing down fear is usually ascribed to courage. What does it really mean, though, to live a courageous life? And, how do we recognize courage in ourselves? Angelou says that a courageous life is filled with kindness, truth, mercy, generosity and honesty. To be known as a virtuous person is to be known as a courageous person, for it is all to easy to give in to fear and act without integrity. Fear causes us to react against others in a negative way - sometimes for survival, others for reprisal. A byproduct of courage, though, is confidence - confidence in oneself and belief in your own value. Courage also allows you to see these things in others and act positively toward them. Living a life of courage is more than overcoming your physical fears, it is having the strength and discipline to stand-to and abide by your beliefs and principles - to uphold virtue and honor and spread the seeds of kindness and mercy. Truly courageous people are generous in their praise of others, and they are not afraid to extend their trust. Are you living a courageous life? Angelou says that you were born with the potential, so now it's up to you to tap into it. Be courageous today - share your virtue with others!