Bravery Is Being The Only One Who Knows You're Afraid

A good chunk of my life I have been the guy who just goes for it, if it seems fun, I'll try it. Often times there is danger in such activities, but I am far from reckless. I will take risks and do things other may find terrifying or stupid, but in the end it is worth the experience. I have also never been afraid to stand up, or be the first to react or respond to a difficult scenario. Overall I feel like these are good qualities and I believe being courageous, even in silly things, goes a long way with the people around you. I have been told on several occasions, by people I've known for nearly my entire life and people I've only known for a short while, that they have found themselves in situations that scare them, or they are not sure what to do and they think about how or what I would do. That in and of itself is incredibly flattering and I couldn't be happy about having such an impact on people. Especially, when it comes to those things you may never get to do again, like if you are given the opportunity to repel down a cliff, or jump off a waterfall. Even something like pouring your heart out to someone that really matters to you, regardless of the outcome. The kind of things that scare you, but are absolutely worth the risk. Those are the things Sam would do in a heartbeat. That and help someone in need, but for now I only speak of activities. I have done a lot of things that have terrified me over the last 5 months, and though I do let others see how much I am afraid, inside I am just as scared as anyone else. I know that a lot of people are going through crazy, or awesome, or awful, or just plain trying, periods in their lives right now. Some people have been lucky enough to be given the opportunity to do things most of us only dream about. Others are stuck in the grind trying desperately to stay afloat or find something better. Whichever path you are on, my message remains the same. When you find yourself faced with something that makes your heart race and you have doubts as to whether you can do whatever it is that lay in front of you, think about that little piece of Sam. Maybe you don't carry a piece of me, but now after reading this you will, but I believe many already have that little Sam voice that says C'mon you can do it! Don't be afraid! I'd be right here doing this with you if I could! So, if you ever encounter a situation where the Sam voice speaks up, please, for both of our sakes, listen to him. Don't miss out on anything. Whether you are thinking of huge life decisions, or simply trying outdoor pursuits, don't be afraid, give it your all and I'll be right behind you, at least in spirit.