Why Discrimination is Wrong for Any Reason

Today, you probably heard the noise about the anti-discrimination bill in the workplace against the lesbian and gay community. The thing is, any employer isn't allowed to discriminate right now, or did I miss something?

Over the past few years there have been tons of debates over black and white, lesbian, gay and straight, and whether or not everyone has the right to this or that.

When did any of us become the police of each other? Since when is it okay for any human being to tell another human being that they can or cannot work somewhere?

The facts released that 21% of the lesbian/gay population say they have faced workplace discrimination. It's appalling.

Why would it even matter? While these debates are still happening in the hearts of Americans, Congress shouldn't have the ability to even enter this debate. It doesn't look pretty, and this is on the heels of disapproval ratings of the President.

If we are going to stand up for people and give equal rights, shouldn't they always be the rights of the people? Why should there ever be a time when we have to say that people "should be able to work where they want?" Isn't it the right of every man  and woman to earn a living?

It's' time for Americans to stand up against discrimination and to live out the dream of a free country, where equality is real and exercised with every man, woman, and child. It's also time for us to stop labeling people as "okay" or "not okay".

It's time for Americans to reach out a helping hand, and to exercise love rather than judgment on their fellow man. While Congress can continue to present ENDA, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, there is no need for people to turn anyone away for work ever.

There is no need for discrimination of any kind, whether it be due to the color of someone's skin or their sexual orientation. We all get to make our own choices, and live our own lives. Do we not? This is America, let's take it back!

If you support the equal rights of all men and women, and you believe that it's courageous to do, won't you join us? You can connect with us on Facebook, and if you enjoyed reading this blog, please feel free to leave us a comment below!

Be courageous!

Do Friends Become Bullies?

Is it possible that friends can be become a bully? Recently an article was published on CNN about Ally del Monte and her thyroid disease.

As a result of medication she was taking, she gained 60 pounds, and the jokes started to roll in.

Can you imagine such a dramatic change? I know a young woman that had her thyroid removed in 2008, and after that, the weight just piled on pound after pound. It was horrifying, and she gained more than 100 pounds in 45 days.

Kids can be cruel though, and they don't have that understanding that we do as adults that these types of jokes can have long lasting effects on an individual's life. The boys banned Ally from the jungle gym, stating that they feared she would break it. How awful.

Ally took it as normal, because she was getting used to the poor choice of jokes. Sad, wouldn't you say? Would you call these friends? I wouldn't.

Just because you are different or you don't look like others or dress like others, does that make you alien in some way? Does it make you uncool? Friends can often change with the wind and be cruel to you no matter what the cost of your current friendship.

Kids often don't see that what they are doing is mean or even wrong. Is that because your example as a parent is poor? It could be, and if you aren't guarded enough about it, you could be leading your children to believe this type of behavior is okay. Am I right?

It takes you being a committed parent, and in some cases it also takes you being a committed friend. Whether or not you are a teen, middle-age, or you are the parent, you have to stand up and teach your children what is acceptable behavior and what isn't.

Who do your children consider friends? Can you remember ever having "friends" like this? If so, it's time for you to reconsider who you are spending most of your time with, and take a look at who your children are spending time with.

Sometimes it's not that easy, but if you stay in tune with their lives and stay involved, everything will turn out alright. Be courageous, and share with your children and friends how to show more courage and love in this world!

PS-Did you relate to this blog post? Are your children struggling with being bullied at school? Why not give them something positive to wear in front of their friends, that will hopefully get them to stop and think? You can go HERE to show your courage!

Courage of a Mom with Breast Cancer

Would you have courage to go on if you were diagnosed with breast cancer? If you are the mother of two children, you don't really think of anything else but NOT giving up. This is the story of my mom. My mom was diagnosed early in life with breast cancer at the age of 40. Not only was she young for the average age of diagnosis at that time, but my mother was also called back immediately after her very first mammogram, EVER. 

I was in the 5th grade, and my brother was two years ahead of me; it was tragic. I could never admit it, and I kept telling my mom that there was nothing wrong with her. I kept saying to her, "You are not sick!" As upsetting as that was for her, I believed in my heart that she would make it, and she did. I couldn't imagine being so young and losing my mother. So, I just pretended it didn't exist. I think for our sake, she took on that role and my words and just decided that she just wasn't going to die. That is the courage of a mother.

A photo of me and my mother on my wedding day, November 14, 2009
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The first step for my mother was meeting with the surgeons, and at that time, they just drew on you. That couldn't have been fun for her. Not just that, but like any woman, mom feared that she was going to be someone different, somewhat alien in that she was losing a part of her anatomy. She had a mastectomy on one side, a reduction on the other, and the surgeons just kept mentioning more surgery. 

Her thoughts? I can't stay in the hospital forever, I have children to raise and a husband. Wow. No thought for herself; she just knew that she had to get better. That is courage. Every time I saw her, she had her makeup on and she was smiling. She didn't act as though anything was wrong with her. I just kept believing that she wasn't ill. The day of her surgery, my dad broke down as she was being wheeled back for surgery, and then at that time, it hit me that she was sick. 

To see my dad cry was a once in a lifetime thing; he just didn't do it. We were the family that people looked to for strength, and how to raise their family. Mom and dad were the parents that showed up at every school function, no matter what. No matter how tired she was, even after mom went back to work, she was always there. 

My mom has exhibited a ton of courage over the years, and although our relationship hasn't been the greatest, we love each other. I admire her still for what she did then, and what she is doing today. Feisty or not, she is my mom. I am going to be a mother soon, actually I already really am. No matter where you children come along, you love them. I love mine, and I haven't even met them. 

The one thing I learned from her is to NOT give up. She was so determined, the surgeon promised her his determination. His announcement when they popped out of surgery was music to the ears. "I got it all, no chemo or radiation." Wow. Even mom's "courage" gave others faith, and she still shares her stories with others. 

I just requested a t-shirt from Courageous Life for my mother, in honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month. Won't you do the same? It's for a great cause, and it's less than what most of you spend to eat out. You can go HERE to get your pink t-shirt. Share your courage! 

Courage Done the Army Way

If you were in the Army in years past, were you expected to exhibit courage in a specific way?

Chances are you might say yes, or if you saw something horrific you may not remember. The Army states that their definition of courage is to face fear and danger of any kind, whether it's physical or even moral.

That sounds like a lot of courage and you may not feel you have "Army like" courage or strength at all. In fact, even if you are in the Army, you may have times in which you don't feel as strong as you would like to, or as strong as you are expected to.

There are ways for you to get stronger, and to help you stay that way. We wanted to share with you how you can be courageous not only with the help of the Army, but why it's okay to have friends in your life to give you a nudge.

Courage Comes in Community 

Some of you can make it seem so easy; you feel confident about everything in your life, or you at least appear to be confident with most things in your life. What about courage?

It's a tough place to be when you don't feel strong, and you are faced with adversity. If you have been in the military or you are today, you may feel less than strong if you have been faced with a tough situation. Most of us just cannot fathom where you have been. In an effort to help you cope, there services available to you, including:

• Embedded Behavioral Health clinics
• Wound Warrior Project and affiliates 
• Local churches or your chaplain

These won't always be easy for you to access, but the theme for the Army for 2013 has been "The Courage to Seek Help." The month of October is dedicated to bringing awareness to Army families and others around them. This is an endeavor that is much needed, especially in times of war.

This is also a great thing because it can teach our children the value of seeking help, and that it's courageous to do so. After all, isn't the plan of life to reach out and love others? To extend a hand and help others in need? Whether that need is financial, spiritual, or to help them face something daunting, it's there.

The main goal for those serving our country is to identify problems now before they escalate. It's better to save a life now and encourage a life, then lose one. Do you agree?

We believe that courage is having faith and helping others. We want to promote this idea, and to reach out a hand to all who could use a little encouragement. Do you know a soldier or a family member or spouse of someone serving that could use a little encouragement and inspiration?

Tell them about our community on Facebook, and why not send them a tshirt or hat as a gift? You can go HERE to take a look at what we have to offer. We thank you for stopping by, and we salute you for your service to our country in times past and present, whenever and wherever you have served.

Have courage!

Anti-Bullying Campaign Encouraged by Teen with Tourette's

It isn't all that unusual now that anti-bullying efforts are made, however, oftentimes they are still unsuccessful. Recently, an article was published by CNN, in their Human Factor.

A young boy named Jaylen Arnold was the youngest to be diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome, but being bullied didn't injur his spirit. Instead, he decided to turn his experience into something inspiring for other teens like himself. He says, "Bullying, no way."

At the age of 13, Jaylen is leading a national foundation to put to an end to bullying. We wanted to share his story with you, so that you can be inspired to action, and maybe consider leading an anti-bullying campaign of your own. Check this out!

How the Vision for the Anti-Bullying Campaign Began 

Imagine that you have a physical condition that is beyond your control. How would you feel if you were being ridiculed by everyone around you, and it never stopped. That is what Jaylen Arnold has experienced, and he rose to the occasion to use this an experience to help those that befriended him to overcome their teasing too.

His condition was diagnosed when he was in second grade, and the bullying began. Not only that but those he was friends with were also being ridiculed. His mother wanted to pull him out of the school, but as a child, you can imagine the thought of leaving his friends behind. His main concern was not being there if they were being bullied by others.

Jaylen's big heart also created a large worldview, in that he considered that this must be happening all around the world. WOW. A young boy could have so much insight at such a young age, and that is amazing. CNN asked him how he encourages others to stop bullying, and his answers are so simple.

• Tell a parent! 
• Surround yourself with good friends! 
• Understand that what makes you different is okay and it's not bad! 

Can we ever come to appreciate those that aren't just like us? Jaylen's Challenge Foundation aims to not only educate others about what brings bullies out into the open, but how they treat other kids, and how to address it. However, the mission is so much more, and since that time, Jaylen has been on TV with Katie Couric, and with the help of others has launched a massive anti-bullying campaign.

You can learn more about you can contribute and how you can be a part of Jaylen's efforts when you go to www.jaylenschallenge.com. We encourage you to join our community here at Courageous Life, and learn more about how you can work with us to promote "anti-bullying" too!

Inspirational Clothing-Does it Really Matter What You Wear?

Does wearing inspirational clothing really matter? You might say yes, but you might also say no too. The thing is, what you wear can influence the people around you.

You know this is true if you watch TV at any time, watch the news, or any reality TV show. Honestly, could it be any clearer that the way we dress affects the way people see us?

It should stand to reason then that what we wear does impact those around us. Consider the photo to the right; how does that message make you feel when you look at it?

You can probably recall a time when you felt fearful in life and you probably felt completely powerless as a result. Right? Wouldn't seeing this message change the way you feel inside?

I know it did for me! There are tons of things I am afraid of, especially at a time when this world sees enough suffering.

Do You Wear Inspirational Clothing? 

So, now the question becomes; do you wear inspirational clothing right now? If not, why not? If you are into graphic tees, why not wear something that sends out a positive message? The way we dress does change how people see us. 

Some examples of this are:

1. Miley Cyrus- the recent twerking incident 
2. Madonna- before and after being a mother it changed 
3. Elton John-people perceive him to be a certain type of person due to his wardrobe 

With any of these individuals, it can be good or bad, but based even on media, it always seems to be more bad than good. If clothing does send a message, why not choose inspirational clothing instead? If you are interested in seeing a ton to choose from for kids, men, and women, then all you need to do is visit our website right now! 

As parents we can have a better influence on our children. What we do, they want to do. Why not take it a step further and focus on what we wear? Why not take a shot at getting someone to smile with your message on your shirt? 

Take a look at our "inspirational clothing" line, and be sure to check out our community on Facebook too! 

Live Courageously!

Don't Judge a Book by it's Cover

You've probably heard the phrase "don't judge a book by it's cover" at least once in your life. The thing is, you have judged people multiple times. Let's be honest, we have ALL done this.

The worst part about humankind is that we have this ability to look at others and say, "They appear to be.....",  or "They look like they are gay." Wow. Do you really know? Do WE really know for sure with 100% certainty?

It's a curious thing that people say this all of the time, and now there is a book that was recently released that talks about this very topic. The book is You Can Tell Just by Looking by Michael Bronski, Anne Pelligrini, and Michael Amico.

However, the first and foremost authority on this topic, the Bible, doesn't encourage this behavior and speaks against it. Does that grab your attention? Whether you are a Christian or not, remember that you are human too. How would you feel if someone said this about you?

Let's dig a little deeper into the issue, and how it affects everyone involved, even you when you pass judgment on another. Let's talk about what it means to really love others that we may win them over!

Judge a Book by it's Cover if You Want to be Judged 

Pope Francis recently made a statement about the gay community in which he said something like this; "If a gay individual seeks God and has the best of intentions, who am I to judge?" Pope Francis is correct.

We cannot see the inside of a person, and if we could see it when we pass judgement on them, I am sure we would see their poor hearts shattered into a million pieces at the hurt we have caused when speaking ill of them. Whether we think it's justifiable or not, it doesn't matter. What we think has to be measured against what God tells us in His Word.

God tells us in John 13: 34 "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples." (NIV) 

Hmmm. He didn't say that you will "look like one of my disciples." He said your actions will let people know who you are. God also tells us this in Matthew 7:1; "Do not judge or you too will be judged." (NIV) 

What if your life were up on a movie screen for all to see? How would you feel then? The last thing anyone wants is to be judged, and to judge a book by it's cover is all wrong. To put it bluntly, if you passed on a book at the bookstore because the cover wasn't interesting enough, you could miss a very compelling story.

Make sense?

The Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender community wants you to know that they too just want to be loved, and they want to love others. They have a struggle in gaining acceptance, at least in some cases. The thing is, these folks already understand how bad we can pass judgment on each other, and how cruel people can really be.

Why live this way? We can reach out to one another, help one another, and love one another without merit. Before you pass judgment on anyone, consider how you would feel if someone passed judgment on any area of your life first.

Don't judge a book by it's cover, be courageous!

PS-Did you learn something from this blog post today? Were you touched by the message? If so, please comment below, and let us know. We want to hear from you! If you would like to support each other with a positive message, be sure to check out our line of apparel to share your courage! You can go HERE to shop! Remember, it's time to stand up and live a Courageous Life!

How to Get Motivated to Live Out Your Best Life Every Day!

Have you been struggling with how to get motivated? We thought we would help you out a bit! At Courageous Life, we believe that BELIEF in fact fuels your fire, but we know that without motivation it's tough to make it through one day when you face some challenges.

We thought it would be a good idea to share with you some ideas on how you can get motivated and stay there for as long as you need to!

How to Get Motivated with Daily Activity

Here are 10 things you can do to help you not only learn how to get motivated, but to help yo stay there!

1.  Keep a journal! Did you know that journaling your thoughts can help you reflect on where you are in life, and help you get out your feelings on paper? It's great when you can go back and see how far you've come as you make progress!

2. Create a vision board. Get an inexpensive piece of foam board and put photos up of what you want in life. Your house, the car you want to drive, and anything else you can think of. Look at it every day, and you'll be well on your way to staying motivated.

3. Join a community of like-minded people. We at Courageous Life believe in community! We believe it can help you get encouragement when you share with people just like you that are struggling. Join us!

4. Get a motivational list of videos! Watching videos of successful people that have struggled to get to where they are is a great idea. Check out Les Brown, Tony Robbins, and many more!

5. Know your WHY. If you don't have a compelling reason to do something, you'll struggle for a very long time. Have a WHY!

6. Talk to successful people. It's always wise to seek counsel from those that have gone on to be successful before you. They can help you see how to get motivated by pushing through the tough stuff.

7. Read good books! It's wise to read the Word of God, but also read biographies of people that have gone on to be successful. It's great to read how they overcame challenges.

8. Start a blog. Blogging is a great outlet for you to share your thoughts and help others. Helping others can make you feel good!

9. Reward yourself. Don't be afraid to reward yourself if you reach a goal. Whether it's dinner out, a movie, or something else. You will stay motivated when you do this!

10. Set goals and be realistic. It's best for you to set goals with anything in life. If you set goals, it's going to keep you motivated for what you want in life. Set goals, short term, then long term. Where do you want to be in 10 years? This is what we mean!

We hope that you found this article helpful on "how to get motivated", and if you would like some apparel to help remind you that we are here to help, go HERE to learn more about what we offer!

Courageous Life!

Inspirational Words from Desiree on Reinventing Yourself

Inspirational words for your life are never easy to find when you feel like you can't do something. Especially losing weight and taking care of yourself. America has been on a binge for a really long time.

Desiree Tebeau knows how you feel. She came to a realization that things weren't good when her father had fallen, and she couldn't get to him fast enough.

Desiree weighed in at 375 pounds, and when she stepped on the scale she just said, "enough". She had already had trouble with her knees, but the weight made it really difficult for her, even after having surgery on her knees.

What started all of this? It was nothing more than battling physical therapy, pain, her dad's diagnosis of cancer, and to cope with it she just kept eating.

While there are many stories we could write to share with you, we know that inspirational words couldn't come soon enough for those of you who have been battling obesity for a long time. We know that instead of criticism and constant nagging from friends and family, what you need is a little direction and some inspirational words to help you get through.

Inspirational Words from Desiree 

The breaking point for Desiree was when plus size no longer worked for her. Upon her 30th birthday, her mother had purchased a size XXXL size in men's jeans, and when she put them on, they ripped. At that moment, Desiree's heart sank. What options did she have? 

No one came to her aid with inspirational words, she just decided that she had to reinvent herself. She set out on a mission to:

• Cut out dairy
• Carbs 
• Eat lean fish and turkey meat 
• Special K bars for snacks rather than sweets 

She wants you to know that it's often the small changes that matter, and it isn't that dramatic jump that makes it happen. In fact, if you were to look at the challenges that most overweight individuals face, they come from the inside. It's often a life of abuse, neglect, low self-esteem, and other challenges that spur an individual to binge eat. 

Desiree says to start out small, then kick it up a notch and get a trainer if you can. You'll need encouragement along the way and it may not be from your family and friends. Coaching never hurt anyone! 

We at Courageous Life believe in you, and we are here to give you the inspirational words you need to make it! We believe that by sticking together, encouraging each other to have courage, make better choices, and live life to the fullest, it takes a community. That's us. 

So, here is what you do! Order one of our t-shirts today. You can look when you go HERE right now at our men's and ladies apparel. Order the size you want to fit into. Then, go and set goals for yourself. Once you reach your goal, will you send us your photo and let us see how you are doing? 

We aren't a training center or weight loss program, we are to say, "Hey, you can do this!" We wish you all of the best, and we are always here to offer some courage, inspirational words, and more at Courageous Life! 

Living The Courageous Life Kinetic Typography Video

If you are in need of a little late afternoon pick me up, watch this motivational video.
If you like this video, leave us a comment!

Courage in a King

Because irony shows up in more ways than one - verbal, dramatic and situational, life requires us to have courage in places we might not think we need it. One man that was greatly affected by this was King George VI.

Have you seen the King's Speech?  It was a wonderfully made movie regarding his struggle with a speech impediment, or more commonly known as studdering.

It made his life incredibly hard and personally embarrassing to even speak to his fellow British countrymen.

Here's a little background story on his life:



Did you know studdering is one of the leading causes of bullying?

Let's stand together and stand up for what we believe in...to live passionately, making certain everyone is treated fairly and equitably, to live courageously, and to love unconditionally.

Are you ready to stand up for what you believe in? Wear it!

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?

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. 

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? 

Inspirational Words for Every Day

Need inspirational words for every day? One of the goals at Courageous Life is to bring you inspiration on a regular basis through our website and this blog. 

We believe that people need to hear good news, encouraging words, and they need some motivational help as well in tough times.

We would like to think of our blog as preventive medicine for the soul!

Have you ever been on a search for some inspiration, but yet you struggled to find it? You certainly won't find it in the news, and you won't find it on any TV show either.

In an effort to keep up with our mission to provide you with encouragement and kindness, we would like to share with you some inspirational words today that are sure to give you a lift. Will you share these with others too?

Some Inspirational Words for All People 

Here are some strong inspirational words that we came across in our search for bringing you some of the most touching words you could share with others whether it's someone you work with, live with, or even go to school with. Check these out! 

When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place. – Unknown
If one dream should fall and break into a thousand pieces, never be afraid to pick one of those pieces up and begin again. – Flavia Weedn
If you’re going through hell, keep going. – Winston Churchill
You must do the think you think you cannot do. – Eleanor Roosevelt
Time heals all wounds. – Common Saying
Whenever you make a mistake or get knocked down by life, don’t look back at it too long. Mistakes are life’s way of teaching you. Your capacity for occasional blunders is inseparable from your capacity to reach your goals. No one wins them all, and your failures, when they happen, are just part of your growth. Shake off your blunders. How will you know your limits without an occasional failure? Never quit. Your turn will come. – Og MandinoYou must make a decision that you are going to move on. It won’t happen automatically. You will have to rise up and say, ‘I don’t care how hard this is, I don’t care how disappointed I am, I’m not going to let this get the best of me. I’m moving on with my life.”– Joel Osteen

More Inspirational Words for Your Day!  

Here are a few more inspirational words that we absolutely love! Enjoy! 

Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending. – Carl Bard
Tragedies do happen. We can discover the reason, blame others, imagine how different our lives would be had they not occurred. But none of that is important: they did occur, and so be it. From there onward we must put aside the fear that they awoke in us and begin to rebuild. – Paulo Coelho
It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.– Aristotle Onassis
Just because something isn’t happening for you right now, it doesn’t mean it never will. – Unknown
At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end. – Christine Mason Miller
What defines us is how well we rise after falling. – Unknown

We hope that you enjoyed these "inspirational words" today, and we hope that you check back soon for more of them here at www.courageouslife.com! 

Quotes About Courage that You Can Share Today!

Quotes about courage are something awesome that you can share with others when they need a quick pick me up, and if they are feeling fearful of making an important decision. 

Have you ever been in this situation? Have you ever wondered what thoughts could help you get up and running and stay up and running in a positive manner?

Could you use a bit more courage in your day? Whether you are looking for inspiration, motivation, or just a word about courage, take a look at these quotes about courage right now, and see if they resonate with you!

Quotes About Courage to Warm the Soul 

Here are a few of our favorite quotes about courage to warm the soul and take you to a place where you can have a word to recall that you can share, or just help you to get through your day.

 “It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” - J.K. Rowling 
“Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” -Nora Ephron 

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” - Winston Churchill

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” - Winston Churchill

“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” - Coco Chanel

“I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what." -Atticus Finch 

“Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” -Nora Ephron

“I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what." -Atticus Finch 

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” -Lao Tzu

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” - E.E. Cummings 

More Quotes About Courage! 

If you liked those quotes about courage, you are sure to like more that we have to share with you! Check out the following as well!

“Courage: the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can't practice any other virtue consistently.” -Maya Angelou 
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement thatsomething else is more important than fear.” -Meg Cabot 
“A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for.” - William G.T. Shedd 
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear.” -Mark Twain 
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear.” - Anais Nin

Have you enjoyed what you have read here today? Have you had the chance to check out our other blog entries as well? If you enjoyed these quotes about courage, then please comment below and share this with others on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus! 

Motivational Videos to Stir Your Spirit!

Have you ever watched some motivational videos that just got you so stirred up, you didn't know what to do with yourself?

You probably wanted everyone you know to watch them right? In fact, you may have posted it to your Facebook page, Twitter, or even on your own personal blog or website, right?

Chances are you were looking for more when you found this article, and now, we are going to share with you some of our very own favorite videos too.

What you will find here, is some fantastic, motivational videos in this first section, that will motivate you to live with courage in every aspect of your life.

Are you ready to be blessed, motivated, inspired, and encouraged? 

Motivational Videos that Will Move You! 

There are tons of great motivational videos out there, but the ones that really count are the ones that touch the deepest part of you. 

This is one of our fan favorites on Facebook, simply because the words are a reminder that anyone can make it, if they exhibit courage, and that they can conquer anything.

When you watch this video, don't you feel as though you could jump off the mountain in the background and fly? 

If so, don't you think that God would give you the wings to do so?

God tells us to "be strong, and of good courage" ; and if we only ask, He will always be there with us, on the scene in a moment. Isn't that wonderful of Him? 

What other videos do we have for you that we believe will take you to new levels of motivation? Check out these next few videos! 

More Motivational Videos About True Overcomers

Here is one that I know you will love, and one that will resonate with so many. Enjoy! 

How about this flashmob of cancer survivors. Pretty inspiring eh?

What about this next one?

This one is even more special and dear to our hearts here at Courageous Life, so check this out! 

Karen Long is such an inspiration to us, and those that have watched this video, are truly inspired and encouraged especially cancer patients.

Naturally, it's great when you have a huge support system, but Karen still had to decide that she was going to live the life God intended, and she still had faith. 

What about you? Do you need some encouragement?

Do you need something to help feed your spirit?

If so, then check out our YouTube channel and connect with us on Facebook HERE!

We invite you to become a part of what we are doing, and help us create more motivational videos by sharing your story! 

Words of Wisdom-Inspiration for Living

Words of wisdom are always nice to get, especially in times of trouble, or if you are in a time of need.

You have probably received some wise words from your parents, grandparents, Pastors, teachers, professors, and friends that you trust. What did you do with them? That is the important part.

It has been said that the man that is foolish doesn't receive wisdom very well. Do you agree? In our humanness, we often refuse instruction, and we keep our elders at arms length.

Why? We know that we cannot deal with the truth most of the time. How sad. It's better for us to face it head on.

When was the last time you were given some words of wisdom? What did you do with them? Let me tell you a story.

The Last Words of Widsom I Ever Got 

I recall a time when my dad had given me a wise word before I went out to the car to grab something out of the trunk. He always told me, "look before you leap, and look before you lean." I never understood that, but dad always had a reason for EVERYTHING he ever said. 

So, what did I do? I walk out to the trunk, and without looking, I lean toward the trunk to pick up the shopping bags from the grocery store. As I reached in and my leg touched the hot exhaust pipe, it took a few seconds before I went, "YOW!" 

My parents weren't too dramatic, in fact, they heard me scream on the inside of the kitchen, but they didn't come running. Why? Dad always knew the difference between life and death, and life and dumb! So, when I went into the house with those two grocery bags and tears streaming down my face, he said, what happened to your leg? 

I looked him for a second and said, "I leaned forward without looking." He sort of smiled, but his eyes were that of a loving father. Dad just stood there for a second as that half-moon shape bubbled up on my leg with a nasty blister. 

Dad said, "I guess you'll look from now on, right?" He then told me to sit down while he grabbed an ice pack. See, it isn't that dad didn't care, but because he was raised with a militant father, and he was in the military, he just always said things without really explaining himself. He always told us that it didn't  matter why he told us to do something, just to do it. Those are words of wisdom! 

Will You Receive Words of Wisdom? 

Now that question becomes, will you receive words of wisdom? Will you receive instruction? I have found that as men and women go through life refusing instruction, they end up suffering more by doing things that they could have avoided. 

It pains me to see people in this space, of where they have:

1. No love
2. No instruction
3. No one to show them they care
4. No one to listen

Sad isn't it? It's funny how we as children get mad when our parents discipline us, but when we grow up to be adults, we understand why they did what they did, and said what they said, and we then hope that we can teach our children every bit as good as they taught us. 

We long for our children to hear us, and to still love us even if we have been hard on them right? I hope that this blog post was insightful for you, and that you are willing to share this with others. If you enjoyed reading "words of wisdom:, please COMMENT below, and share on Facebook, Twitter, and anywhere else you can!