the brave ones

WHAT I AM REALLY admiring in people nowadays is bravery.  No, not the kind that will put you between an oncoming car and an unaware cat, though that could really be cool, too.  Rather, the bravery that really makes my heart light up is the kind that displays itself regularly and without formality or pause for praise.  It is the kind of bravery that allows someone to stand up for who they are. It is the kind of guts it takes to know that you are not part of the crowd but that you are here, seemingly different than all the rest, and that it is not only okay, it is necessary.

It is the kind of inside fire that doesn't cower because you are different, doesn't pull others down because they aren't, doesn't boast aggressively in attempts to make the difference seem acceptable. This is that really quiet bravery that resides inside the very few who just take what they are for the gift it is and know that their lives and their personalities are changing all the time.  It is what propels one to face another day, not knowing if it will be good or bad or if they will make any difference.

It is that kind of courage that makes one unafraid to show their foibles to the world, proving that strength and confidence are not acquired without earning them. And I think right now it is bravery above all else that makes me want to love someone. It gives me hope and it makes me smile when I can see it and feel it and to think of those wonderful people I know who have it, who have shown me what it looks like.

On the other hand, some people turn me off by their appalling lack of courage and their weakness. Sigh. One can only play the victim card so much, my good fellow. But anyway, if that is you, then I leave you be. If sympathy is what you need, then go, pursue that. One time to two would be fine. But to do this all your life?  Where are your balls, man?

Kindly do not cross my path ever again.