We really are blind to how we are programmed at times. I think if we blinked off and on like a VCR after a power outage we’d have a bit more interest in analyzing our thinking.
Some of you are saying, “What’s a VCR?”
It’s the foundation of everything you have today relating to media at your fingertips.
But this is about bravery and boldness. No, not being brave enough to clean the VCR Heads with alcohol or wind the tape back up with scotch tape after it was eaten. It’s about being what the culture is NOT.
Everyone likes to be unique, and if we all sat still and talked more, we would discover our uniqueness. But for the most part in our world, being bold and brave means what it doesn’t mean.
Boldness has embraced the idea of being risky, or sassy. It’s attributed to those who speak their mind and say it like it is… or keeping it real… or speaking up! Sometimes, boldness and bravery are about being unique only to realize that the sense of being special just means you are ordinary.
I am not bold and brave. Well, at least not in everything. I have the same haircut that I accidentally wore during my freshman year in music school. I like the same type of clothing styles also. I’m not bold in the risky sense. I will not put my body in danger for any reason outside of saving another life. I’m not a thrill seeker and I have a great time watching other people enjoy their own type of bravery while holding the bags and taking pictures.
No, there is bravery and boldness in many arenas and many ways to define it.
When it comes to relationships I have learned that there is subtle bravery that stands so far beyond the norm that it is prized in every culture in the world.
Humble service over haughty sass.
Invisible vs Invincible.
The quiet life over commanding change.
I hope you see the point.
Being loving, kind, considerate, patient, etc. is what real bravery looks like when the culture says to be loud, in charge, and make people notice you. It is much more powerful to be noticed for the opposite. And as a matter of fact, it is such a desirable character quality, that it is difficult to find an example without pondering.
Sadly, much of the noisy world will say that people like this are weak or controlled. But, are they? I say no.
I think that the person who listens is one whom most will find when needing wisdom.
I think the person who is patient will find themselves surrounded by quality, compassionate, and masterful peers.
I think the person who is able to let people be wrong, rage, and make noise without getting involved is the only one left standing at the end of a long run of nonsense who is still making progress, still on track, and still has intimate friendships.
There are great examples throughout history of this very thing. People who were change-makers, influencers, teachers, and mentors that did not do what others did or speak how others spoke, but were settled, confident in truth, and able to keep focus no matter what the culture said. One, in particular, didn’t even defend His innocence nor embrace His sovereign power over His lowly state, unto death.
You do get the point.
So, let’s talk. Let’s listen. Let’s write about what we think. Not so we will be known for our attitudes… so we will be known for being human, and most of all, a friend to others.
How have you seen this type of boldness change the climate and culture around you with family, friends, peers, or co-workers? What are some other ways that a true gentle and patient approach has benefited you as a recipient?