How I Learned Courage From My Seven Year Old

Most people would believe I am this fearless person, who never experiences moments of panic. Good! That’s exactly what I want you to believe! But in real life, I have the same internal conversations, everyone else does, when I feel uneasy about new or challenging experiences. Well, this post is not about me and my inadequacies. This post is about how I learned courage from my seven year old. Aiden is an athlete. He is a tennis player, swimmer, soccer player, rugby player, and an equestrian. He was our first born, and the one we placed all of our hopes and dreams. With our incredibly unhealthy desire for him to be this perfect athlete… We got exactly what we wanted! He truly excels at any and every sport he plays. However, when we were praying for a pint-sized olympian, we forgot to manifest public speaking skills. An opportunity for Aiden to join a performing arts group presented itself, and I thought, ‘this is it!’ When we arrived at his first class, I could feel his heart beating through his sweaty little hand. He anxiously watched as more and more kids burst confidently through the door. And to make matters worse, they were all wearing the same, drama-chic, black t-shirts. Aiden then whispers to me, ‘I don’t feel like I belong.’ Figuretive knife through my Mommie-heart! ‘Sweet-pea, you don’t have to stay. We can go home right now if this doesn't feel like the right fit.’ Before he answered, he just started walking towards the sea of chic-black tees and took a leap of faith. I walked around the lobby for a few minutes, just in case he decided to come running back, but he never did. An hour later, the doors to the auditorium swung open and presented this little star! He began to gush about how he loved performing and couldn’t wait until their first performance in a few weeks. Umm, what? I get anxiety just by thinking of joining a new club or mom’s group! Aiden, please teach me your ways old wise one! …After my dramatic, internal monologue I realized courage was simple. First you acknowledge your fears about the situation, and then before you can rationalize the fear…you walk towards a sea black-chic t-shirts. Thank you, my love for showing Mommie what courage should look like.

Be Happy!