As I began to read the first chapter I didn't get very far before I realized how much this book would speak to my heart, my struggles, and my life. According to Brown, the gifts of imperfection are courage, compassion and connection...honestly, I didn't get past courage!
Brown writes, "Courage originally meant 'To speak one's mind by telling all one's heart.' Over time, this definition has changed, and, today courage is more synonymous with being heroic...I think we've lost touch with the idea that speaking honestly and openly about who we are, about what we're feeling, and about out experiences (good and bad) is the definition of courage. Heroics is often about putting our life on the line. Ordinary courage is about putting our vulnerability on the line." (p.12)
So what does courage look like?
... well maybe not like this, but 2 Timothy 1:7 says,
"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice,
but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline."
Courage is strength, confidence and boldness to live life filled with the Holy Spirit! I think for a long time my default operating system has been set on timid - I am shy, often a little afraid to speak my mind, and definitely overly cautious. But, this week I remembered that God did not give me a timid spirit and as the Message translates the verse, God doesn't want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.
Brown ends her short description of courage with these words, "Courage has a ripple effect. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver." (p. 15)
I have taken all these things to heart this week. I know that I can not change my ways over night but for now I will continue seeking to be bolder, more courageous, and even brave - because I remember who I am as a beloved child of God!
