Meaning of Courage
While this book is geared toward individuals who wish to improve their public speaking skills, the heart of this book is really much more than that. The Courage To Be Naked not only helps you onstage, but helps you live a fuller and more vibrant life overall. After all, that’s what real courage is: whole-hearted people living their worthiness.
In fact, the word courage itself comes from the Latin word “cor,” which means heart.
People who have real courage are those who are willing to open themselves up and revel their heart – their true self. They are willing to be imperfect and let go of who they think they should be in order to become who they are truly meant to be.
People with real courage are essentially vulnerable, accepting that what makes them vulnerable is actually what makes them beautiful, unique and special.
This type of courage seems like it comes naturally to some people. They are ready to shed their skin and just open themselves up to the world. For others, however, letting go of inhibitions and doubts is much more of a struggle.
For me, I have fought with this my entire life. Being vulnerable and exposed has never been second nature for me, even though I have always known deep within my soul that I wanted to be like that. Therefore, despite my developed inhibitions, I have spent many years surrounding myself with people who do possess such courage.
These individuals are often regarded as odd. Mainstream culture does not always understand or embrace the powerful quirks that these individuals willingly let shine. It is their desire to be who they are that makes them different.
There is nothing more refreshing than meeting someone that posses true courage within them: Courage to be themselves, no matter what.
I have seen no better example than in my niece and nephew. Children have the gift of honesty, plainly showing their feelings to the world. When they hurt, they tell you. When they love, they show you. My relationship with Natasha and Zal has been an important awakening for me.
By being around these people, I have discovered that courage is not simply something you are born with. It is something you cultivate. It has taken me years to let go of my fears and I have fought with myself countless times as I try to leave my skin by the door.
It’s literally been a street fight, of which I have lost some and won others. Over time, I’ve found my courage.
It is that courage that I want to share with you. It may not be easy, at times it may seem like a lonely road and it probably won’t be comfortable, but ultimately, it’s worth it.
What examples do you have of courage? I cannot wait to share this book with all of you. So excited.
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Courage IS something to be cultivated. I also agree that courage is essentially vulnerability because of all the times I have been courageous, I was always scared darnless.
I can’t wait for this book. I loved your other one and I think you are a great writer who sees what others don’t.
I forgot to add. When can I get my hands on this book???!!!
Yes, it is scary at times being courageous. But well worth the rewards.
Thank you for the kind words
Stay tuned for the book launch – coming within the month.
Fred, you wrote another book? I did not even know. Sign me up.
Courage is something you cultivate. there are many times I just try to avoid confrontation with people but it just nags at you and I believe that is courage trying to get out. 9 times out of 10 it is a good idea to get it out.The more I do it, the easier it gets.
Thank you
Looking forward to it. Keep me posted.
I am so looking forward to this.
My niece and nephew are wonderful too and I love how much you care for yours. When are you having some kids of your own Fred?
The book is great Fred. A must read for anyone that wants to over come a fear public speaking and for those of us that want to do a better job.
I especially like the idea to talk the audience before you speak to them. I found this is a sure fire way over come some the jitters. I find it is much harder to be nervous when you are speaking with some one you know.
I also like idea that power point is not a teleprompter. Nothing is more annoying that having someone repeat what you can already read.
Mike
Mike, glad you enjoyed the book. And once again, thank you for supporting the cause for the kids. You are an amazing man!
Fred, I’ve been doing presentations for longer than I can remember, but decided to give your book a read for extra insight – I’m pleased to say that I wasn’t disappointed. I found references such as connecting with audience using emotion and stories such as “The Man in the Hallway” excellent.
Thanks,
Mike Kelly
http://www.wemeanfitness.com
Mike, thank you for the great comment. I truly appreciate it!
The man in the hallway was an experience I will never forget.
Reading your book almost made me want to sign up for another speaking engagement (almost!)… thanks for setting an example of what it means to truly be genuine and real.
Sarah, so glad you enjoyed the book. Thank you for all your support.
I say go for it – sign up for another speaking engagement.