Unleash Your Brave!

When I was a little girl, everything to me was scary. Leaving my house, going to the grocery store, talking to strangers, and riding the school bus for the first time at the age of 5 in 1973 (neither the bus driver nor I knew where my stop was and I was the last child on the bus!). I cried hysterically and wet my pants.

My grandma would encourage me to overcome what she considered unfounded fears (minus the devastating bus fiasco. That was kind of founded).  She taught me how to talk to her ‘harmless old lady friends’, to smile more, and to ask the ‘intimidating’ McDonald’s cashier for ketchup. I remember asking for a packet of ketchup, grabbing it, and then hiding under the table for 5 minutes after because I felt so exposed.

Grandma taught me how to be brave. My beautiful, elegant grandmother. Lena. She had cancer from the time I was born until she passed when I was 18, just before I left for college. Grandma Lena stood strong and unbroken, one diagnosis after the next. Each surgery and round of chemotherapy and radiation didn’t slow her down. Brittle and broken bones, caused to weaken from the cancer drugs, didn’t stop Grandma from bouncing back, putting on her earrings and make-up, and going to lunch with her group of supportive, loving friends.

I watched this for 18 years, this unwavering bravery to face and fight her battles, without complaints, anger, or doubt. Grandma was the center of my universe so her life left a huge impact on how I live mine.

Then, in 2005, when I was diagnosed with cancer, there was no questioning how I would approach this obstacle-with grace, strength, and perseverance just like Grandma taught me. Like Grandma, I looked ahead and continued doing what I enjoyed and found ways that would keep me focused on how to win this with unwavering bravery.  I do believe her experiences and bravery were the reason I overcame my circumstance as quickly as I did, faster than what the doctors predicted. Of course, Grandma was with me the entire test just like she was there cheering me on at McDonald’s. Grandma Lena was right by my side, encouraging me to go deep into my soul and find my brave. And my brave I found! I went through two surgeries, a year of treatments, and kept working. Full time! I woke up each morning, put on my earrings and make-up, and made sure to go to lunch with my friends often!

Being brave does not have to be running into a burning building or facing cancer. It can be stepping out of YOUR box, like asking a stranger for ketchup, or changing careers when you’re 55, or getting out of bed after a long time following the loss of a loved one, or wanting to spread your wings after experiencing depression for years.

Bravery, “a quality that allows someone to do things that are frightening (to her).” Acts of bravery often require a helping hand or an encouraging voice, like my grandma was for me. Whether it’s a hug or a compassionate ear to listen, support from a gentle place and person can be what helps someone to cross that threshold of fear.

I have chosen to become that person for others needing an encouraging voice, an empathetic hand to hold, a quiet listener with whom to share. I created Insync Energy and Intuitive Self-Care so I could reach out and offer my gifts to you. These gifts involve gentle healing techniques, a prepared safe and cozy space, and time where you can heal and find YOUR brave. All it takes is one step forward. Your brave is right there inside of you. Can you feel it? It might be a tickle right now. But I know if you inch closer to the other side of your comfortable box, you can find it and let it out. Learn more here about how the work I do can draw out your brave, your courage, your strength. It’s time to be brave, my friend, and I can help guide you there……..www.InsyncEnergy.com