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 major 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). Formerly a mental health researcher, Emily also holds a master's degree in psychology. You can find the latest from Emily at www.emilypgerickson.com. View more posts