My Definition of Brave By Kriquette Davis

We all have our own definition of brave, don’t we? For some it means fearless and for others it means being able to confront tough situations. Those were probably my definitions in the past, too. Humans do not like change as a rule, it is scary. So, when I lost my job, it was a scary time in my life. I had several part time jobs leading up to my job at the Y, but the Y was my first full time big girl job.

I fought hard to keep a positive attitude during that hurtful, uncertain and disappointing time in my life. I smiled through the tears and walked it out. I am so much better for going through that. No, it did not “toughen me up”- I was plenty tough to start with. But what it showed me is a whole different meaning of brave.

Brave started looking like beautiful moments instead of money, following my heart instead of pleasing people, risking my heart rather than hiding it away, being okay with chaos instead of control, sunsets and sunrises over being busy, deep conversations rather than small talk, and being true rather than trying to be perfect. Being brave has meant continuing to share my story so that I can be a voice for the voiceless.

But most of all, I can rest knowing that my God will never leave or forsake me. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave or forsake you” Deuteronomy 31:6.