I did something brave this week. At least I was told I was. I was also told that I was “courageous.” I didn’t feel courageous or brave, though. When I think “brave,” I think of a person standing tall with their hands on their hips and a cape fluttering behind them. What I felt was pretty much the opposite of that. I felt my heart really big and hot in my chest. I felt my stomach cramping. I felt a light and buzzy feeling in my limbs. I felt like I had drunk too much coffee. Basically, I realize now, what I felt was fear. But, I did the thing that needed to be done anyway. And I’ll see it through. That’s what courage is. It’s what Atticus Finch said; it’s what other folks have said. And now I know it to be true, too.
Courage looks different than it feels
Published by Emily P.G. Erickson
Emily P.G. Erickson is a freelance writer specializing in mental health and parenting. She has written for popular digital publications, including Everyday Health, Health, The New York Times, Parents, Romper, WIRED, and more. Emily is a professional member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) and the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ). Previously, Emily researched PTSD for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and earned a master's in psychology. You can find the latest from Emily at www.emilypgerickson.com. View more posts