In the movie “The Legend of Bagger Vance”, the title character, an inexplicably wise caddie teaches a troubled golfer how to reach deep inside and find his “authentic swing.” He tells the conflicted golfer: “This is the authentic swing you were born with—the one you came into this world with—the authentic swing is all that you are! You’re just caught up with life’s oughtas and shouldas.” The underlying message is not a new one. It is about having the courage to examine self rather than remain self-righteous.

Uncertainty is an inevitable condition throughout life, but the essence of courage is a spiritual energy from the heart that, in defining moments, motivates a person to take action. “The motivation to take action comes from a deeper level, not from egoic wanting or fearing. Inner alignment with the present moment opens your consciousness and brings it into alignment with the whole, of which the present moment is an integral part. The whole, the totality of life, then acts through you.” This is when you know your reservoir of courage is brimming over.