Here’s a story for children all about courage. It’s reminded me to take a moment when I’m scared and listen to my heart.
Courage comes from the Latin root for heart. It’s not about being a fierce fighter, able to vanquish all foes. It’s about being connected to one’s heart, such that one’s relationship to fear can change.
I’ve noticed that when I get scared of someone, I have a tendency to harden against them. I close my heart, and judge them.
Courage invites an opposite movement. I pause, take a breath, and notice how I’m feeling. This brings the possibility of looking at things differently, of seeing the other person with curiosity, compassion even. I feel like I have more choice, more agency and more creativity when I can remember to do this.
This story offers this teaching in simple terms that a five year old could understand. It’s something that many of us could benefit from remembering however, myself included.
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