Community gives you courage.

Community gives you courage.

This summer, I watched my 6 yo timidly play in the waves at the beach. I could see she so wanted to break free and do her thing. But she had a wave crash hard on her earlier in the summer and I could see her fear of it happening again.

I encouraged her, letting her know she’d be okay.

But my words fell on deaf ears.

Shortly after, a couple girls about her age starting playing near her and jumping and swimming through the waves fearlessly.

I watched as she grew the courage to do the same.

In no time, she was laughing and splashing in the waves with them, full of courage.

It is no different for us as adults. The community we surround ourselves with give us courage and proof of what we’re capable of when we trust ourselves.

Sometimes, it can feel like we’re outsiders, waiting for our “ticket” to belong, but you decide for yourself where you belong and then your only job is to show up and belong.

Have the courage to be you.