Lately I have been thinking a lot about courage.
I had to pull a dead lamb from a ewe. It had been inside her for a few days. We didn’t know if it had been born and left in the field or if she still carried it. We waited and watched and then one day she began to push. She needed help and we were there. It wasn’t pretty. If the dead lamb remained inside, the ewe would surely die. It’s challenging when you know that the life of another is in your hands. There are no playbooks. Each individual life unique, each moment with its own set of rules.
Courage forged by love is what you have to guide you.
Today and now everyday, we are challenged to be courageous for one another. Each encounter with another human being holds the possibility of giving or getting the virus. The uncertainty is daunting but through it all we know some things with certainty. We know that we are descendants of a long line of survivors and we carry their wisdom however buried it may seem. We know we have the potential for greatness and the ability to manifest the seemingly impossible. We know within us we hold the seeds of everything we need: kindness, clarity, love and yes, courage.
It is time to trust the gifts that we have too often overlooked. It’s time to exercise the muscles of compassion and empathy. Despite the hardships, despite the difficulties, we have what it takes to persevere and to flourish.
My sheep is doing fine. She made it through. I sometimes walk with her as she follows a bit behind the herd. She moves slowly and deliberately as she continues to teach me.
Use your gifts, friends. Find your courage and persevere.
These 2 minute commentaries air on WDRT radio every Thursday at 5:30 pm CST. You can also listen on Soundcloud.
And when I need a shot of courage, there is one voice I rely on for support. I take time for Prem Rawat’s lockdown series. Well worth the time.
Disclaimer: the photo is of Heart, not Rosie (the sheep mentioned in this piece) and it was taken years ago by my friend, Noho. Rosie didn’t want her picture taken. LOL. They both have courage. Heart is still the leader of the herd, most inquisitive, most relentless, most demanding…
let kindness win 