Dear Tribe,

Another month has ended, and we are rushing into the last quarter of this year! The seasons have changed, and although we have experienced extreme weather conditions in various parts of the country, we are still going!

 

It made me think of a topic I love to speak on to encourage others and myself: courage. What does this word or concept mean to you? The dictionary describes a courageous person as someone who is not deterred by danger or pain, someone who is brave. So many of us live everyday life and may think that bravery or courage is found in the superficial surroundings of that which may be seen on TV or in movies. However, pain and danger are all around us. Sadly, South Africa is rated as one of the countries with the highest level of crime. But in the face of these challenges, our Tribe continues to show incredible courage in their everyday lives.

 

This tells me that we have a very strong, courageous Tribe that is not deterred by the circumstances around us. How many people can testify currently of not experiencing pain in some form? It’s real. People are hurting, and the sheer determination of so many to change their lives and reach for a better future is remarkable. But in the face of these challenges, our Tribe continues to show incredible courage in their everyday lives.

 

Sometimes, being brave means walking away from bad habits, wrong friends, and destructive relationships. The fear of rejection and loneliness is real, but courageous Tribe, when we move in a better direction, it may be challenging at first. Still, it always leads to a healthier lifestyle and fewer disappointments.

 

I am saddened to see the number of dismissals due to theft and alcohol abuse in the reports I receive—beautiful people who end up in complete loss and pain. When we make bad decisions, there are always consequences. So, the choice is often ours to become successful, but healthy success comes when we diligently change bad habits into good ones. For example, alcohol is not just expensive, but the toll it takes on the body when it is abused is very often irreversible. The pain of a hurting body and depression that come from alcohol abuse is not worth the short burst of escape into another world.

 

I want to encourage you to choose good habits, nurture good friendships, and teach your children the value of consistency. No matter where you are in life, you have the power to pursue greatness. Your courage will increase when you regularly make courageous decisions.