Courage Out Loud (#338)

Expressing myself has seemingly always been difficult. I’m introverted and anxious so the combo doesn’t always mix well when people want me to share how I’m feeling or what’s on my mind. I see my friends try these things. I see people I look up to live their lives with unmistakable bravery and ferocity. They know who they are and their confidence shines as a result.

Even though I may not be where I want to, I’m Grateful I’ve come this far. It used to be worse, I remind myself. Confidence to me is an acceptance of the way things are. It’s a belief in self that doesn’t stretch for the past or reach for the future. Confidence is courage out loud.

01.18.19

Today I’m Grateful For…

1. My Peer Mentor staff
2. Trying new restaurants
3. Friendly animals
4. Sleeping in on the weekend
5. A little support
6. Childhood memories with my siblings
7. Late night ice cream
8. Time for myself
9. Encouragement and motivation
10. Catching the morning sunrise
11. My new mantra
12. Clean water
13. Time to read for myself
14. Teaching CORE here at UMass
15. Shared anything
16. Pickup soccer with friends
17. Warm summer nights
18. The return of life and color every Spring
19. Creative people
20. Cooking together
21. A chance to journal and reflect
22. The sound of the ocean, heard from well down the path
23. My incredible parents
24. Life in Cambodia
25. This very moment

As always, check out my first blog 25 Things I’m Grateful For (#1) to know why I’m writing this list and why I want you to start yours.

If you’re interested in Guest Blogging for the Gratitude Journal, click (here)!

Featured image from Acadia

Author: Jacob Ames

Feline father, perpetual graduate student, sport enthusiast, pancake expert, and gratitude writer. Using this blog to keep my life organized and to develop a platform I can one day use to share baseless conspiracy theories about the robot uprising. I enjoy writing! View all posts by Jacob Ames