I was facing a snarling dog who barked ferociously at me. It was exceptionally evil-looking with black fur and red eyes.
Having nothing to fight it off with, I grabbed a pillow and whopped it. The dog’s head wobbled rapidly. When it stopped, I saw that two heads had emerged. Stunned and horrified, I struck it again. This time three heads appeared. Overwhelmed and terrified, I woke up.
It takes courage to fight a three-headed dog. Thank goodness they only appear in my dreams. I like to fancy myself bold and courageous, and sometimes I am. Other times I sit back and watch others move forward. Sometimes I run in fear.
Through the years I have admired those around me who have chosen to be bold and brave. It takes a person with a stout heart to stand for what they believe in when they are outnumbered or even alone. These aren’t just the heroes of folklore and history books, either. They are leaders in their own unique circles, sometimes unknown to those outside. They may even be unpopular in some way, or vulnerable, or with limited resources – individuals regular society has little patience with or seldom notices.
“Anyone willing to know their own heart and spirit can follow their own courage,” states Sandra Ford Walston, a speaker and author dubbed “The Courage Expert.”