Chapter 1: The Essence of Courage

The fundamental essence of courage lies in the belief and feeling of "I can." This insight, drawn from David Hawkins, highlights the crucial emotion needed to foster the self-determination necessary for change.

During my summer journey to Austin, Texas, I encountered an inspiring millionaire whose positive outlook and remarkable skill in building successful ventures motivated me to read his book, Start from Zero, and implement his strategies.

This article explores my findings from employing the author’s five-step interviewing technique with a group of participants to uncover their most pressing struggles. You might find their challenges resonate with your own. The path to resolution, while demanding, is within your reach.

People’s Emotional Complexities

What I discovered is that many individuals grapple with either acknowledging their emotions or expressing them effectively. This struggle often leads to complications in personal relationships, and in several cases, a persistent low emotional state stifles their potential and hinders their plans.

They find themselves in a “holding pattern,” where their feelings impede them from embracing a fuller life. As David Hawkins asserts, “Courageous individuals move forward in life.” Thus, initiating a more vibrant existence requires igniting the emotion of courage.

Journey into the Heart

Hawkins illustrates that courage serves as the pivotal emotion that ushers one into a transformed state of being. It marks the distinction between a constricted emotional experience and one that is expansive, signifying a choice between living in fear or pursuing a life you cherish.

“On the level of courage, we truly begin to awaken. We realize that we possess the freedom and ability to choose.” - David Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.

The initial step is to confront the emotional barriers preventing you from accessing a more fulfilling life and allow these feelings to surface. This act of bravery fosters a connection with your humanity and your heart.

Human suffering originates in the mind and culminates in the heart, which acts like an alchemical furnace where we can process our troubles, witness their dissolution, and ultimately transform them into elevated emotional expressions.

Our mental anguish often arises from a lack of courage and the skills necessary to navigate our thoughts and emotions. The mind tends to remain active through worry, replaying past events and future anxieties until we find ourselves immobilized.

Dare to explore the depths of your being, where your true power resides. In French, the word for heart is “coeur,” and in Spanish, it is “corazón.” The phonetic root is “core,” symbolizing the area you must access to connect with your heart.

• Set a clear intention to dwell in your heart.
• Make a conscious effort to reside there.
• Protect this sacred space by practicing self-compassion, embracing your emotions, and heeding your inner wisdom.
• Ultimately, learn to accept what is — yourself, your emotions, and your surroundings.

By doing so, you will no longer shy away from life, but rather be ready to engage fully with it. Nurturing an inner life will soften this metaphorical 'sea of suffering' — the murky waters of unresolved emotions and past traumas.

The journey begins with courage.

Chapter 2: Overcoming Inner Demons

Many artists have navigated tumultuous lives riddled with vices. From Billie Holiday to Billy Idol, struggles with addiction and self-sabotage have often cut short the careers of remarkable talents.

In examining their narratives, one can detect a persistent dark energy that seeks to undermine their success. The theme of drama often recurs; just as they appear to be flourishing, this opposing force emerges to challenge them.

In the film Respect, based on Aretha Franklin's life, a close friend observes her ongoing inner turmoil and states, “There are no demons haunting you... Just the pain you've been avoiding all your life. But it’s time to let it go.”

We can continue battling the “demon” within, neglecting to confront its origins. These are simply memories and emotional traumas that require processing. Ultimately, they are just emotions and uncomfortable feelings.

We can choose to ignore them or confront the pain. Though it may not be easy, and it demands a thorough examination of our life experiences, progress will come with persistence.

From Stagnation to Action

To instigate change, a motivating factor is essential. My focus is on guiding artists who struggle to escape the confines of their minds and connect with their hearts, enabling them to realize their potential and lead fulfilling lives.

When I succumb to overthinking, I experience suffering. I often forget that creativity springs from the heart, and that my true fulfillment comes from serving others, which invigorates my spirit and purpose.

However, I must first attend to my own needs. As Hawkins asserts, “We can only give what we possess.” Without the ability to settle my thoughts, calm my emotions, and cultivate a home in my heart, I won’t have the emotional strength to support others.

Suffering is a solitary endeavor that keeps us stagnant. In contrast, serving others fosters a sense of community and propels us forward.

When we nurture courage within ourselves, “We become more innovative and resourceful, as our energies are no longer depleted by the constant preoccupation with survival.” - David Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.

Common Struggles

Reflecting on my interviews with over ten individuals, I identified several recurring themes:

1. Many struggle to access and acknowledge their emotions.
2. This emotional disconnect often leads to relationship challenges and difficulties in expressing feelings.
3. Low emotional intelligence significantly impacts their self-worth, decision-making confidence, and ability to pursue their goals.

This shared human experience explains why therapists, coaches, and counselors will always be in demand. Everyone grapples with this universal condition — or perhaps I should say affliction. Emotional education remains largely absent in formal schooling.

Life’s Challenges

It is our responsibility to cultivate courage, navigate our emotional experiences, and connect with the higher wisdom of our hearts, which will shape our confidence, resilience, and capacity to face life’s challenges.

Embrace the courage to live from your core. There, at your essence, you’ll discover your heart and break free from the worries that the mind generates. This will free up your emotional resources, enhance your creativity, and propel your productivity in pursuits that ignite your passion.

Achieving a balance between action and reflection is possible. Yet, first, it’s essential to practice stillness. Confront the discomfort that arises when engaging in this profound inner work, and trust that it will lead you to clarity, serenity, and inspired actions.

Remember:

“What you have to offer to others is not merely a tool or theory; it is you, transformed by life, experience, and the courage to confront your inner wounds.” - Excerpt from The Jeshua Channelings

Thank you for reading! I welcome your thoughts or comments, as I would love to hear from you.

• For more inspiration, download my free ebook, The 8 Secrets of the Heart, to help you express your inner voice!