A friend chose the word “brave” to define his year. (others chose words like “wise”, “focus”, “engage”, “tenacity”, “embark”) The dictionary says brave means: ready to face and endure danger or pain; showing courage. I think sometimes with guys, our machismo gets the best of us and our way of showing courage is to do so without emotion - stoicism. I define brave as one who shows courage by brutal and absolute honesty, with sincere emotion. In my book, to choose the word brave takes courage to start, I know I’m not ready for that word yet.* However, the person who took this word is ready and he lives by the rule of complete honesty with emotion.
Kirk (wisdom) and I (engage) were walking down the hall today, and I told him that it troubles me that I get distracted easily by non-priorities. “Why do I do this?” I asked. “Because it’s easier than dealing with huge problems.” We talked about the concept of courage and seeing things clearly. We talked about balance, and how life is a blend of juggling priorities … often in times of uncertainty, in times of pain, and sometimes danger.
Life isn’t easy and most days it takes more than just one word. Every day we need to be brave, and wise, and laser focused with complete engagement and tenacity as we continue to embark on the rest of our life, one day at a time, because sometimes life will throw us a curve ball. Whatever that is, we need to rally and figure out tomorrow because it will come and how we react (bravery) will determine the next day and the next day and the next.
… be well …
*In the face of danger, my preferred method is to exit stage left.
-Steve Simonin, President & CEO
