I was watching an episode of Freaks and Geeks last night when I heard the phrase ‘Bring it, don’t sing it’* for the first time since probably my sophomore year of high school. Ahhh, synchronicity.

I spent the first part of May writing about fear–understanding it and realizing its affects on us. I’m of the opinion that change begins with understanding. But understanding without action is impotent. Currently in the midst of a situation ripe for apprehensions, fears, and worries, I have chosen to bring it–to act differently than I might have in the past–instead of just paying lip service to courageous living.

Recognizing and celebrating moments of courage is an excellent way to encourage future acts of bravery, even the everyday valor required to keep moving throughout those really tough days when we just want to stay in bed all day/week/month. So, I’d like you to take a moment or more and think of what your brave self has done for you lately. Big or small, it matters not. You deserve to appreciate yourself, to see the good you’ve done for yourself. That’s it. That’s all for this week. Just praise yourself for being here. You’ve gone through a lot and you’ve brought it this far. Good for you.

*For those not in the know, ‘bring it, don’t sing it’ means the same as ‘put your money where your mouth is’ or ‘put up or shut up.’ Basically, stop talking and just do whatever it is you say you are going to do.