Dear Reader, Today I Am Brave

Dear reader, today I did something brave. I spoke up when I wanted to stay quiet. I showed up when I wanted to hide. And even though my hands were shaking, I did it anyway. I want you to know that the brave thing does not have to be loud. Sometimes brave is just staying.

I used to think courage meant not being afraid. But I am learning that courage is being afraid and choosing to love yourself through it. The little voice inside you that says “try again” — that is courage. That is me, whispering to you.

If you are reading this and you are scared of something today, I am proud of you. Just for being here. Just for still trying. You are braver than you think, little one.