Inspiration really can be found in the strangest places!

Today, I was rushing out to the beach when I saw my mother was sitting in her recently renovated garage, watching a movie called Men of Honor. I was suddenly gripped by a scene in which African American seaman Carl Brashear, played by Cuba Gooding, Jr., was watching the Caucasian seamen as they swam in the ocean.  He was hot and sweaty and longed to swim in the cool ocean waters. However, this happened during the period that the Navy was segregated. Since Brashear was black, he was not allowed to swim with the white seamen. I watched as his longing face changed into a face of determination and courage. He started stripping off his shoes and shirt. Then he marched down to the deck with the white seamen who became angry and aggressive towards him. He pushed passed them and jumped into the ocean to swim.

He was ordered out of the water and, when he refused, he was chased. He outswam the other seamen, including the best swimmer on the ship.  Eventually, he returned to the ship and was arrested.

While he was in the brig, the captain visited him. The captain had noticed his boldness and skill and allowed him to train as a rescue swimmer.  It was the beginning of Brashear’s journey from ordinary navy cook to master diver.

This movie (based on a true story) reminded me that courage is an essential skill for the meta-inspired. We can all feel inspired to do great things. Inspiration is important. But without courage, inspiration is ill fated. Without courage, the doors are closed. Without courage, the ceiling is low, the distance is short, and the vision is limited.

Courage is that energy that drives us when the journey gets difficult.

Courage gives us the boost to take another step and reach higher and farther than we have ever dreamed.

Courage supports our decision to take just one more step, to submit another draft, or to swim in the ocean.

I am reminded of a quote by Daisaku Ikeda that says:

Courage is the force that makes our lives brilliant.

So, today, I am inspired by the courage of those who dare to dream, who dare to feel inspired, and who dare to take that step in the direction of their dreams.

Inspiration can be found anywhere. Today, I found it in my mother’s garage!

Where do you find inspiration and courage?