by Susan Kramer

Remaining relaxed allows us to calmly confront an issue or person with whom we may disagree, or whom we feel may threaten our values.

Everyone and everything around us is truly an outside influence, but just an influence.

We perceive an encounter with fear if we feel we will be influenced to give up our position or attitudes, or coerced into doing what feels uncomfortable to us. That need not happen.

Courage preserves our ideas and integrity. It is our birthright to live our own life. As an adult, we have the right to make our own decisions; lead life as we choose.

Confront a conflict by first being aware of what your body feels like when you are enjoying an activity. You can almost feel the warmth circulating throughout, and you feel in control, master of your actions. Note this carefully now; remembering for later. Practice feeling this way several times by just bringing a happy thought to mind while in a safe setting.

The next time a potential conflict threatens, remember what your body felt like during your practice session and go into that relaxed space; feeling whole, complete, and safe in the house of your body and mind. No one can enter your house without your permission. If you feel uncomfortable with another's influence keep it outside your body and mind. Do not accept it for yourself.

Bravely, while feeling safe inside our body, we most easily confront those issues holding us back from freely expressing ourselves in the world.

Being Courageous ã 2001 Susan Kramer
Artwork from the 'Blossoms of California...' collection ã 1997-2001 Susan Kramer
email: susan@susankramer.com
web site: www.susankramer.com