The ocean swimmers at Forster Beach are a courageous bunch. On some days, you’ll find them swimming from the beach out to the headland way beyond the ocean baths.
When our swimming group from Newcastle joined them, they welcomed us with open arms and plenty of enthusiasm. At least fifteen of us set out together, jumping over the gentle waves on the shore and into the cool, clear open water. Stroke by stroke, we headed toward the point, but it didn’t take long for my courage to wane. I’d never swum that far from shore before, and as the distance grew, I fell behind.
With the group way out ahead, my courage slipped away. Clumsily—and I’ll admit, with a sense of relief—I turned back and struggled my way to shore alone.
Some time later, the brave swimmers returned to the beach, wide-eyed and excited, eager to share tales of their adventure. They spoke of stingrays gliding gracefully and gummy sharks prowling along the sandy ocean floor. I was in awe of what they had seen and their fearlessness.
I have always struggled to embrace fearless living. How about you? Once, I was given some good advice from a colleague about speaking to a CEO. I kept it pinned to my wall and close to my heart: “If you believe something in your heart to be true, don’t be afraid to stand up and say it.” Following that advice, I did share my perspective with management many times—and it was terrifying!
This week, with clarity, conviction, and compassion, Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde looked the newly appointed U.S. President and his family directly in the eye and spoke what she knew in her heart to be true. She stood up for the principles of God’s Kingdom. “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” said Budde “There are gay, lesbian and transgender children in Democratic, Republican and independent families. Some who fear for their lives.”
“Few people are willing to step into those decisive moments when their voices are needed most. I have always known my friend and Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde to be one of those few,” the theologian and writer Kelly Brown Douglas said.
Courage comes in many forms, whether it’s swimming into the unknown, speaking truth to power, or standing firm in our faith. It’s about learning to live and respond according to our true beliefs and in ways that align with our best selves. It doesn’t mean we’re fearless—it means we press forward despite our fears, trusting in something greater. As we face life’s challenges, may we remember that courage is not just for extraordinary moments but for the everyday ones, too. In our grief, struggles, or uncertainty, we are called to rise with faith, grit, and grace.
How might courage look for you this week?
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." —Joshua 1:9
A Prayer for compassion:
There are many who feel isolated or rejected. Help them experience love and connection through you and through the compassion of others. Help us be fully awake and ready to respond to the needs of those around us. Help us always stand for justice, peace and equity on behalf of the most vulnerable. Amen
