Overcoming Cancer – The Inspirational Story of Karen Long

Karen Long inspires others to never stop fighting.

When faced with the devastating news of being diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen Long had two options: give in to the disease or fight to beat it. For the mother of two, the thought of having her kids grow up without a mother was unbearable. So the only option that mattered to Karen would be that she would fight the long and uphill battle against cancer.

In an unusual series of events, Karen goes into remission from cancer for 5 years only to find out that the cancer had returned in stage 4. With the help of prayer, family support and the support of the Orlando Police Department Karen was able to remain optimistic and continue to fight the battle with cancer.  

Courageous Life documents Karen’s fight against cancer and the story of hope for many.  Special thanks to everyone who helped put this video together.

Help Karen and Courageous Life raise money to fight against cancer by purchasing one of our Courageous Life products. Courageous Life will donate a portion of every sale on merchandise to Libby’s Legacy. The goal is to spread inspirational messages across the globe and help people who are having a hard time with their own circumstances.

Share your inspirational story with us by commenting below:

Developmental Milestones Mean Raising Kids Right is Important!

Developmental milestones are truly the gauge for whether or not children turn out a certain way. With each milestone, children change, they grow mentally and emotionally, but they also grow physically. All of these aspects of a child's life mean they need to work well together, and when they do, they turn out just as you had hoped.

Self confidence is a big part of this, and as a child learns how to communicate in their own way, walk, talk, and more, they need to know that they are doing okay and that they are well on their way. So, what does this have to do with raising a better human being?

Children need to learn as they get older, that what they are doing or not doing is okay. Children learn boundaries, and they learn everything from their parents. So, if you don't teach them boundaries on what they should think and feel about themselves, how will they know what is right and what is wrong?

Why Developmental Milestones Matter 

If you have never studied developmental milestones of life and how they work, now is as good a time as any to study them, and learn as much as you can. Children learn how to be more confident once they take a step, or even when they start to crawl. 

When you finally crawled, didn't your parents clap? When you took your first steps, didn't they clap and continue to encourage you? Children that lack this in life don't seem to move as fast as everyone else, but they can still encounter men and women along the way that will encourage them and teach them how to advance in life. 

If you are an adult, have you considered  the following:

1. Fostering 
2. Adopting 
3. Becoming a big brother or sister to children or teens in your neighborhood
4. Teaching others how to read 

There are so many ways in which you can help others, and if you reach out to someone to help them and teach them WHY they matter, and why their opinion means more than what others tell you, then they will have better self-esteem. 

What if you had the courage to make a commitment to helping change someone's life for the better? Could you do it? Better yet, would you do it? 

Finding Happiness in Your Own Developmental Milestones

Have you ever read some quotes about happiness that made you realize just how awesome you are all on your own? If you grew up not understanding how you fit into this world, guess what; this is just one of many more developmental milestones. 

You can read all of the books out there on how to feel better about you, and you can get words of wisdom from those around you and it still won't change who you are. Words of encouragement are always nice too, but you still decide whether or not you can create the life you want. 

It's wonderful to have the heart of a child, but it's best not to always have the mind of one! Each of us have our own way, our own life, passions and goals. What will you do with your life? 

If you would like to learn more about how we encourage teenagers, adults, and more in their life "developmental milestones", then please visit www.courageouslife.com. 

Quotes About Happiness-Can Reading Them Make it All Better?

Quotes about happiness are great to read, but do you really believe in what you are reading? It has been said that happiness is an inside job, and no doubt that is true. You've heard us say it before, and if you know anything about our organization, we are here for you to help you with:

1. Self confidence
2. Self esteem 
3. Building character 
4. Developing moral and spiritual courage 

While these are all great topics, there still isn't good information to go around to help you if you have already decided that you need something to make you happy. So, what does it take to make you happy?

Do you believe that it is possible for you to be happy all on your own? If you need some quotes about happiness, we have some that we would love to share with you, but remember, it's truly an inside job.

Getting Answers from Quotes About Happiness 

See this quote above? Do you believe it? Do you realize that the key to your happiness is to find your own way? Better yet, it's about doing things God's way, and realizing that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. 

What does this mean? It means, that you can't rely on someone else to teach you how to be more confident, and you can't rely on getting someone else to make you smile. Here are a few quotes about happiness, just like the one above that re-iterate this to you. 

Here is what some successful people believe to be true about happiness: 

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." -Dalai Lama 

I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel like being around certain people makes me feel pretty happy or very unhappy. Do you agree? Remember, that at the end of the day you alone are responsible for your happiness. Even if you are in a room full of unhappy people, remember ,it's up to you to be happy. 

As a child growing up, you reached several developmental milestones, and even as a baby, you only cared about what made you happy, right? If you fell down, you got back up, and if others were making faces at you, you still chuckled, right? 

It has been said that children are the best salespeople, and it's true. These are words of wisdom for you friend. To focus on being happy, regardless of what is going on around you. This is NEVER easy, I know this all too well. 

More Quotes About Happiness in God 

Have you ever heard someone say that God can make people happy? Okay, so if I say this, don't be quick to judge; even God can't make you happy, and he won't force you to be happy. 

See, God is all about free will, and He loves to give His children free gifts. Namely, the one most important of all is salvation, but He will give wisdom freely and liberally too. God wants only the best for you, and won't leave any stone unturned. 

Why should you? Here are some quotes about happiness I found and how they relate to God our Savior. 

"I know God won't give me anything I can't handle. I just wish he didn't trust me so much.” 
-Mother Theresa 

Hmm, how do you feel abuot that one folks? Commitment to your own happiness is key, and yes God will give you no more than you can handle. Have you ever questioned this? Have you ever thought that you must be destined for greatness if He gave you so much to work with?

The only words of encouragement I could give you are that happiness is an inside job, but until you can be consistent on your own, there are plenty of people around you to help you get there. You have friends and family that love you, and if you struggle with family, ask God to bring people to you in your church that you can lean on and ask for help and guidance. 

You could sit and read inspirational quotes all day, but will that change your life? Could you rely on funny movies to help you "Get Happy?" 

No! There isn't anything wrong with any of this, BUT, don't lose sight of the fact that happiness is an inside job. If you would like to read more quotes about happiness that we share, or you need some encouragement, just pay us a visit over at www.courageouslife.com today! 

Self Esteem-the Foundation for All Young People

Self esteem is no doubt the foundation for boys and girls, and it's no surprise that so many are struggling. Why? Parents today aren't building up their children's confidence enough, and others are poking holes in it, easily and often.

If hormonal changes and peer pressure weren't enough, how about the fact that it takes mom and dad to help their children to feel good about themselves?

Have you ever heard that children could do without this? Don't you think that if your opinon of yourself were better, that you would be able to do more, be more, and handle more of life just fine?

This is why we have been creating a movement to teach children and adults more about self esteem, how to be more confident, and how to grow strong in life and in spirit. Keep reading to learn more about what this could do to change the life of your child, or just for you personally.

The Beginning of Self Esteem

Early in life, you learn that you are special, loved, and that no one means as much as you do to your mom and dad. What happens after that is horrific in the mind of a child. What happens when they experience someone else being number one, or winning the award that they didn't win? How do you handle this?

I was reading some quotes about happiness the other day, and what I read was so true. Most of the quotes were from individuals that were actors, writers, celebrities, and more. The quotes were all defending that yes, happiness is in fact an inside job, so no, it doesn't come from the outside fix, EVER.

Developmental milestones are critical, and that means that every stage of a child's life needs to experience a sense of accomplishment. Do you love them where they are? For example, if your 15 year old goes out and does something wrong, can you approach that the same way you would with a 6 year old?

Of course not. That doesn't work. This is why you absolutely MUST focus on your commitment to raising them with a strong mind, heart, and emotions. Our children are growing up unbalanced, giving most of their efforts in life to one side of their lives. Can this be prevented? Of course it can!

Words of Wisdom on Self Esteem 

Have you been searching for words of wisdom from those you trust with every shred of hope mustered up you can find? Chances are you have, but you may have been looking in the wrong place. God's Word says that there is safety in the multitude of counselors, and it's true.

You can find words of encouragement just about anywhere if you look, but will they teach you something? Is it possible that you can find what you need when you turn to your trusted family members and friends? Is there hope in other people?

Don't teach your children that other people solve problems, teach them that healthy solutions and answers all come from God Himself, and that we are NEVER far from God's love, EVER. If we believe that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and we are taught that from the time we are born, how could we be amiss?

Here are a few inspirational quotes that will shed some insight into this for you.

"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter, try again, fail again, fail better" - Samuel Beckett

"Stop thinking of what could go wrong, and start thinking of what could go right"

Thinking into the future, and thinking only of God's best is what gets us to a better and safer place. Now, how do you view your self esteem?

Self Confidence the Root of Your Life

Self confidence is lacking for so many right now. Do you feel that you have lost confidence in yourself for any reason?

There are tons of books that you could read right now that teach you how to be more confident, but it works only when you apply what you learn right?

It seems that there is a book for everything under the Sun, a pill for every ill, right? You are not the same as your brother or sister, your classmate, your spouse, and therefore there is no set of rules to make you be anyone else, other than who you are!

Remember, if you don't believe in you, then you cannot expect others to. It's sort of a catch 22 if you feel bad about yourself, right? Obviously, no one can make you feel good about yourself, and no one can make you believe that you can do anything that you set your mind to.

What is the key to building self confidence? How can you create the life you desire, and feel good about you and what you do? If you are ready to create a new you, a new life, or just make your life better, then keep reading! You are about to be lifted up, and have a new outlook on who you were created to be. YOU are awesome!

Building Your Self Confidence 

So, what is the key to building self confidence? Some say it's about recognizing those things that are you insecure about, and then taking action to change them. It's simply about getting clear of the WHY you feel a certain way about things, and once you are clear, it's easy to make change.

Can you recall a time as a child or even as a teenager that you were told that you had low self esteem? It happens, and it happens to a lot of teens when kids are critical of each other or bully each other. As I was reading quotes about happiness the other day, I realize that most folks want others to make them happy.

For example, we look at the following for our happiness including:

1. A new outfit
2. A new boyfriend or girlfriend 
3. A new car 
4. A new job

It's always something from the outside that makes you feel a certain way, and because of that you believe that there is something else out there to help you feel better. Right? As children and as teenagers, we all hit developmental milestones that are critical, and each represent something in our lives.

If we fall down as a toddler and get back up, our parents cheer us on, and that tells us that hey, we are great! If parents don't, then the child has no sense of accomplishment, which means they have not been encouraged to do more.

Will you make the commitment to cheer yourself on? Will you choose to lead the life you were intended to live?

Words of Wisdom on Self Confidence 

I hope that this article was able to give you some words of encouragement as you seek to build your self confidence. Sometimes, it's as simple as you going out and doing what you know to do to help yourself get further and grow as a person.

Look up some inspirational quotes right here with Courageous Life, and share them others as well if they helped you. Don't be a stranger! Here at Courageous Life, we are here to help you become more, do more, and have more. Our idea of living is being rich in life and in spirit.

If you were blessed today, make sure that you leave us a comment below, and that you share this with others on Facebook, Twitter, and anywhere else you can find. We hope and pray that you are able to build a strong life spiritually and emotionally, and that you develop the courage to stand.

You are amazing, and you owe it yourself to build your self confidence!

Mothering in the Soul

Mothering, what a topic. Where and how do I start? Hmm, it's a loaded question, and for that matter a loaded topic. Well, for me it is anyhow, and if you are a woman like me that has been struggling to have a baby, you are in the right place.

I can tell you what it feels like to have a miscarriage, and more than one for that matter. I can also tell you that people say stupid things, and they really don't mean to. I can tell you that the more losses you experience the harder it gets, but having said that, you learn a lot.

Mother's Day has come and gone, and I finally got to the point I felt I could write this. As hard as it is, I know that I am NOT the only woman out there that desperately wants a baby. Empty arms, loneliness, call it what you will, it's all the same to me. Really, it is.

Mothering, is something close to my heart, and above all, you should know that you are already there. You are a mother without a baby...just like me.

Longing for Mothering

It has been said that the longings of the heart can drive us into our greatness. I know otherwise. I know this from the side of life when you long for something so much it breaks your heart. My heart has been broken for nearly 4 years now, as my husband and I have tried to create life.

Ah, but we technically do not create life, God is the life giver. We are raised up to believe that we can do, have, or be anything we want. Somewhere along the way, when things don't work out, we discover that isn't the case. It has happened to you, to me, your siblings, you parents, but remember, they just wanted you to know that you could do more than they ever did because they believe in you so much.

This is a bit different, because it's that heart longing, that longing that comes from the soul. It's a natural thing for a woman to long to be a mother, it's who we are! Some women choose not to be mothers, and that is okay too. For those of you that long for this, you just need to know that you are NOT alone.

Even on a day when your friends are celebrating with their children, they hold their babies, they can kiss their cheek, and they can have their newborn's tiny finger wrapped around their finger, they don't understand what it feels like to be on the outside looking in. Even if they have had a miscarriage in the past, they know how you feel, but in this moment, they are relishing in the joy they now have a new life they can hold and love.

So, where do we stand? With this longing that claws at your heart and leaves a big gaping hole, what do you do with it? How do you survive this emptiness you feel inside? It won't go away, but here is something you can do.

Mothering the Best Way You Can Until That Day Comes 

As hard as it is, and believe me when I say it's hard. I know, because I've done it already, but.....what you learn about mothering, and solidifying that desire in your heart so that you know that you know that you know, is this:

1. Love the children of your friends and play with them until then 
2. Volunteer at Children's Hospital and offer the love you have to the children that were left behind by their parents. They need you. 
3. Volunteer to rock babies if you can 

You may not be immediately ready for any of this, but I can assure you that everything you learn will make you not only a better person, but it will teach you that yes, you are more than ready to be a mother.  So, what else do you until you are able to do these things? 

Mothering is On the Way 

While your time for mothering is on the way, remember, you are so much more already. You are a woman that is valuable, that makes a contribution to societ, in the workplace, and beyond. You MATTER, you really do. 

I can assure you that as women, we often feel that the only contribution we have is to clean a house, work our jobs, then work more when we get home. I find that many of the women I've met just like me, that long to have a baby often hold onto it because they believe so hard that is all they were meant to do after 4 or 5 years of marriage. 

Ladies, rest easy. Your time is coming! Yours is coming, mine is coming, and when that day comes, you will have a peace that passes all understanding, and a love that you never thought possible. The other side of this that is emotional...let it happen. It's okay to cry, it's okay to hurt, but you are not alone, nor are you required to go through it alone. 

Friends may not understand, family may not understand, but mothering is a big part of who you are. If you had a loss, and you still look at your ultrasound photo like I did, and you still lay awake at night longing for the day, and no one else said it to you before, "Happy Mother's Day". It's coming.

You may have the crib, the blankets, the teddy bear, but all you are missing is the baby. Much love. 

Inspiring Quotes for the Workplace

If you don't like where you work or who you work with, then inspiring quotes can be helpful if you are having a tough day! I love to pull them out and read them when I am going about my work day, just because it helps me often put things back into perspective. 

What if just for one day, you could spea something inspirational to someone else, whether they were a friend, co-worker, or even a family member? What if you could share some good thoughts with others just to see them smile?

We want to share some inspiring quotes for the workplace with you so that you can get that much needed pick me up in the middle of your day, and so that you can help others smile that work alongside you! 

Inspiring Quotes for Everyone for Everyday 

In the middle of difficult lies opportunity. -Albert Einstein
The surest way not to fail is to determine to succeed. -Richard Brinsely Sheridan
Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe. -Gail Devers Kites rise highest against the wind; not with it. -Winston ChurchillToo often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. -Leo BuscagliaTake the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. -Martin Luther King If you can change your mind, you can change the world. -Joey Reimer Don't try to innovate for the future. Innovate for the present. Peter DruckerIf you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost. That is where they should be. Now put the foundation under them. -Henry David Thoreau The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -Martin Luther King 

Now can you see why so many love these inspirational quotes for the workplace?

More Inspiring Quotes for the Workplace for Sharing Everyday! 

Attitude is the way you look at things around you. A positive disposition towards experiences shapes you for the rest of your life. Success and happiness at workplace largely depends on your attitude. Needless to say what the results will be if you have a winning attitude.

Success or failure in business is caused more by the mental attitude even than by mental capacities.Sir Walter Scott
When you believe you can-you can!Maxwell Maltz
A strong positive attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug.Patricia Neal
Our paradigms, correct or incorrect, are the sources of our attitudes and behaviors, and ultimately our relationships with others.Stephen R. Covey
Your attitude is more important that your aptitude.Zig Ziglar
Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens.Kahlil Gibran

We hope that you enjoyed these inspiring quotes, and we encourage you learn more about what we do, and how you can share inspiration by what you wear when you visit www.courageouslife.com. 

Inspirational Bible Verses

Inspirational Bible verses are great when you need a pick me up, and they are most certainly great when you are hurting inside. There is nothing more difficult than not having something to turn to when you need an encouraging word.

This is why God's Word is a constant, and why so many look to it daily for help and insight for living.

Have you been in need of God's touch, but you felt that you were too far from Him? Have you desired too hear from God, but you felt that you were too far away?

If you are in need of some inspirational Bible verses, and you have been having trouble finding them, keep reading.

We wanted to share some of our favorites with you, so that you wouldn't have to go very far! Are you ready to be inspired by God himself?

Check Out These Inspirational Bible Verses 

Here are some inspirational Bible verses just for you!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. -Jeremiah 29:11
One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. -Psalm 27:4
Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. -Psalm 34:8
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. -Proverbs 17:17
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.- Isaiah 40:31
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. -John 15:13
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? -Romans 8:31

A pretty good start for the day? We think so! 

More Inspirational Bible Verses for You! 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,  neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8:38-39
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. -I Corinthians 13:12
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. -2 Corinthians 4:16-18
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ  and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ--the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. -Philippians 3:7-9
so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,  may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,  and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,  to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. -Ephesians 3:17-21

I don't know that there is anything more inspirational than God's Word do you? Whether you are hurting, feeling good or just need answers, check back often to see what we have to share. There are new stories and inspiration each day. 

To learn more about our reason behind sharing these inspirational Bible verses, pay us a visit at www.courageouslife.com. 

Inspirational Words for Any Day of the Week

Inspirational words are often needed when tough times ensue. I know this all too well. In fact, I have to tell you that recently, I've been looking for them a lot. I've been looking for them for me, but for others too. 

Have you ever found yourself looking for words of encouragement during a difficult time? Have you ever wondered where you could find words of hope and inspiration?

Now you can find them here, just when you thought you didn't have more sources to use or to find something you could share, you found out you were incorrect!

So, here we are providing you some inspirational words for you and for you to share with others, so that you can spread hope and joy to others.

Inspirational Words for You 

Here are some wonderful inspirational words we found to share with you, and they are from folks that come from all different walks of life. 

You have to take what people think is wrong or even foolish and make the breakthroughs of tomorrow. – John Kheir, MD -
Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm. - Winston Churchill -
We are kept from our goal, not by obstacles but by a clear path to a lesser goal. - Robert Brault

There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again. - Elizabeth Lawrence -
A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm. - Henrik Ibsen -
An army of lions commanded by a deer will never be an army of lions. - Napoleon Bonaparte -
If you feel that you are indispensable, put your fingers in a glass of water, withdraw it, and note the hole you have left. - Author unknown -
Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success. - Dale Carnegie -
Experience is pure gold. Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. - Ann Landers -

These quotes come to you straight from some folks that have had tremendous success in their lives, and others that are merely hard workers, and inspirational speakers. No matter where you come from, you have something to offer for sure.

Here are some more quotes that will help lift you to another level, no matter where you are, and no matter what you are doing.

More Inspirational Words to Live By 

Here are some more inspirational words for your spirit as well. 

Your talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God. - Leo Buscaglia -
The issue is now clear. It is between light and darkness and everyone must choose his side. - G. K. Chesterton -
What is there beyond knowing that keeps
calling to me? I can't
turn in any direction
but it's there. I don't mean
the leaves' grip and shine or even the thrush's
silk song, but the far-off
fires, for example,
of the stars, heaven's slowly turning
theater of light, or the wind
playful with its breath;
or time that's always rushing forward,
or standing still
in the same — what shall I say –
moment.

What I know
I could put into a pack
as if it were bread and cheese, and carry it
on one shoulder,
important and honorable, but so small!
While everything else continues, unexplained
and unexplainable.
….mostly I just stand in the dark field,
in the middle of the world, breathing in and out…

- Mary Oliver from "What is there beyond knowing" -

Now that you have some encouraging words, will you share these with others? Will you make an effort to share the good you find with others?

If you would like to learn more about our motive for "inspirational words" then visit us at www.courageouslife.com.

Courage-What Defines This for You?

Courage is a great thing, yet it seems these days that so few people have it. With so much negativity in the media and in the world in general, it seems that we have more to worry about but less men and women coming forward to share their thoughts on what is happening and why.

Do you realize that if you don't like something, you simply need to be the change you want to see? Although we often look at change as way too hard for us, and we may think that getting others to change is too hard, we have to keep looking.

What if those before us just gave us and did nothing? What if those we call leaders didn't exist? What if those we call leaders didn't teach us what we have learned? What would we be like? Would we have acquired that knowledge elsewhere.

To do those things, it took courage. What will you do?

Do You Have Courage? 

Has anyone ever asked you if you have courage? If so, there was probably a reason that they asked you. It doesn't mean that you are weak, and it doesn't mean that you are someone that they won't follow, but it does mean that you need to look within yourself for something deeper.

Can you recall a time when you saw something taking place that you didn't agree with, and you did nothing? That was a lack of courage, and on a deeper level it may be a lack of conviction as well. The question isn't whether or not you are capable of being courageous, but it's a matter of whether or not you know what you believe and why.

If you do, it's easier to stand up for it right? There are tons of quotes about courage, and if you have any doubt as to what it means to exhibit courage, read those quotes and you'll better understand it. Read biographies about leaders and what they do, and by all means be sure that you check our our website so that you can read more about the leaders we are meeting, and what they are doing every day to make a difference.

You won't hear about them in the news, or the newspaper, or even the radio. You won't find them on Entertaintment Tonight, American Idol, or even Bill O'Reilly's show. These people just go and do, and they do for God. There is a big difference.

How will you show your courage today? 

Marge Simpson and the Inspiration Behind Her Character

Marge Simpson is a name that many of you know, and while you may believe that her character has nothing to do with what we write about, just hear me out. The creator behind her character, Matt Groening, used everything he knew to create what many consider an entertaining show, and in this case it was Groening's mother.

Margaret Groening passed away on April 22, 2013, while sleeping,leaving an entire cast of characters in her wake. Perhaps her purpose in life was two-fold. She was the mother of a creative man that has brought joy to millions, and she inspired one of the main characters in the show, The Simpsons.

This brings me to ask you two questions:

1. Do you fully understand your purpose in life?
2. Each day, do you ask, "How can I inspire someone today?"

Little did Margaret know that she would inspire her very own son to create something so powerful like this, and at the time she probably had no idea what her purpose would be other than to raise her son. Let's take a look at the character of Marge Simpson, to get a better idea of who she was and still is today. 

The Character of Marge Simpson

Go ahead and laugh. Yep, we are talking about Marge Simpson. In fact, it's not so much about her, but remember, it's the woman that inspired her character. It causes you to wonder whether or not every detail was just like Groening's mother, or if it was just a few trade offs here and there. 

If you read the story about Margaret, you will find out right away that yes, she did in fact marry Homer! Why? Ah, he was the one that made her laugh. While her hair wasn't blue, the laughter factor alone spells The Simpsons, simply because laughter is WHY Groening created it in the first place. 

In his mind, it was about writing what you know, and creating something that you are familiar with. In fact, Margaret's maiden name was Wiggum, just in case you didn't catch the character Chief Wiggum. Ah, how Groening was able to weave so much family into the story is amazing, and it's what makes this story so special. 

I am sure that Groening will need some time to grieve the loss of his mother, but it was her that inspired him to write these stories, and she breathed life into his characters for millions around the world to enjoy and identify with. The characters went far beyond just the mother figure of Marge, but they encompassed the family as a whole. 

Do you wake up with the desire to inspire? If you believed for a moment that you could breathe life into the characters of a story, or someone's life for that matter, wouldn't you do it? In some ways, we can learn from Marge Simpson, don't you think?

If you could be more of an inspiration like Marge Simpson, then go to www.courageouslife.com to learn more about how we can help encourage you daily! 

Words of Wisdom for Business Owners

As a business person, I love sharing words of wisdom with other business owners, employees, and customers. Why? Because they are all people. We are all people. None of us is worth more than the other, we are all in this together.

The most disturbing part of this is that I see that we have a tendency to separate people by class, race, creed, religion, and what they wear. What good does that do? It really doesn't do anything good or postive in any sense.

Since when do we have any right to treat people differently because we own a business or think we are someone special? We are here to serve people aren't we? Better yet, what would you say if I told you that we are here to serve those that serve others?

If you want to hear some words of wisdom, keep reading.

Words of Wisdom from Leaders 

Have you ever read this quote from Albert Schweitzer? Good words of wisdom! Take a look: 

I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the onlyones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and foundhow to serve. -Albert Schweitzer

 He is right. His words were true then and they are still true today. I hear so many people running around all of the time talking about how they aren't sure of their purpose yet that is the craziest thing I've ever heard in my life.

I don't know that I could ever NOT think about what my destiny is, but happiness is something we all want right? Schweitzer knew what he was talking about when he made that statement above. In fact, if you have never heard of Simon Sinek, then you should get to know him.

Simply go to YouTube and type in Simon Sinek, and what you hear will amaze you, stun you, but above all you will be smiling at the end of it all as you make a discovery. That discovery is that we are all people, we all want the same things, and we should all treat people like people.

When was the last time you paid someone a compliment? When was the last time you lived life full out each day as if nothing else mattered? Think about it.

Words of Wisdom for Followers 

Are you aware that not everyone was intended to be a leader? Some of you are made to not only follow, but you could very well be the helper that comes alongside and makes a huge difference in the lives of others.

What would you rather be? A leader or a follower? What about a person that serves others? That way, you don't have to put limits on yourself, label yourself, or worry about anything else. Right? Just be the best you that you can be.

I hope that these words of wisdom have stirred you to do something more in life, and that you have now realized  it's all about people, and not you. Live courageously!

Inspirational Quotes About Life!

Have you been searching for some inspirational quotes about life in Google? Chances are you found us while you were searching. 

No doubt that you were excited to find some good quotes just to read while on your break at work, or you were looking for something to share with someone you know could use a word of encouragement.

Isn't it nice to find something that is uplifting to the soul? It's nice to be doing basic searches online and find that information, don't you think?

This is why we wanted to share some inspirational quotes about life that you are sure to enjoy and that are sure to truly life others up as well.

Check Out These Inspirational Quotes About Life! 

Now that we have your attention, read these inspirational quotes about life, and be sure to share them with others as you see fit. 

I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious. ― Albert Einstein
You can talk with someone for years, everyday, and still, it won't mean as much as what you can have when you sit in front of someone, not saying a word, yet you feel that person with your heart, you feel like you have known the person for forever.... connections are made with the heart, not the tongue. ― C. JoyBell C.
Maybe you can afford to wait. Maybe for you there's a tomorrow. Maybe for you there's one thousand tomorrows, or three thousand, or ten, so much time you can bathe in it, roll around it, let it slide like coins through you fingers. So much time you can waste it.But for some of us there's only today. And the truth is, you never really know.”― Lauren Oliver, Before I Fall
The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively― Bob Marley
If you want to forget something or someone, never hate it, or never hate him/her. Everything and everyone that you hate is engraved upon your heart; if you want to let go of something, if you want to forget, you cannot hate. ― C. JoyBell C.
Don't be afraid of your fears. They're not there to scare you. They're there to let you know that something is worth it. ― C. JoyBell C.
We have to allow ourselves to be loved by the people who really love us, the people who really matter. Too much of the time, we are blinded by our own pursuits of people to love us, people that don't even matter, while all that time we waste and the people who do love us have to stand on the sidewalk and watch us beg in the streets! It's time to put an end to this. It's time for us to let ourselves be loved. ― C. JoyBell C.
You will find that it is necessary to let things go; simply for the reason that they are heavy. So let them go, let go of them. I tie no weights to my ankles.― C. JoyBell C.
Pick the day. Enjoy it - to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come... The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present, and I don't want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future.― Audrey Hepburn

Pretty good eh? Check out the rest! 

I have come to accept the feeling of not knowing where I am going. And I have trained myself to love it. Because it is only when we are suspended in mid-air with no landing in sight, that we force our wings to unravel and alas begin our flight. And as we fly, we still may not know where we are going to. But the miracle is in the unfolding of the wings. You may not know where you're going, but you know that so long as you spread your wings, the winds will carry you.― C. JoyBell C.

The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. Do it. Throw yourself.― C. JoyBell C.
There is no such thing as a "broken family." Family is family, and is not determined by marriage certificates, divorce papers, and adoption documents. Families are made in the heart. The only time family becomes null is when those ties in the heart are cut. If you cut those ties, those people are not your family. If you make those ties, those people are your family. And if you hate those ties, those people will still be your family because whatever you hate will always be with you. ― C. JoyBell C.
Pain is a pesky part of being human, I've learned it feels like a stab wound to the heart, something I wish we could all do without, in our lives here. Pain is a sudden hurt that can't be escaped. But then I have also learned that because of pain, I can feel the beauty, tenderness, and freedom of healing. Pain feels like a fast stab wound to the heart. But then healing feels like the wind against your face when you are spreading your wings and flying through the air! We may not have wings growing out of our backs, but healing is the closest thing that will give us that wind against our faces.― C. JoyBell C.

Now that you have read this amazing inspirational quotes about life, do you feel better? If so, then be sure that you share these with others. If you were helped today by reading our blog, then COMMENT below and let us know. 

We encourage you to check back often for more "inspirational quotes about life"!