We live in a world that sees living bravely as some outward thing. Being big, bold, bright. Willing to stand out. Willing to take risks.
Yes. All of those things could be under the list of “brave" and when I originally started writing the album, I thought that was my goal: authenticity rather than perfection. But over time, I realized this journey was much more profound.
Life is technicolor. Messy. Imperfect. Uncertain. The bravest thing we can do is to live through all of life's fragile beauty from a place of inner stillness--a deep surrender and awakened presence.
Living from a place of inner stillness can feel like a paradox when life throws storms our way. But it is not about the water always being still. It is not about avoidance or resistance, or running and hiding from pain, either. Stillness is what lies underneath our thoughts and emotions; it's beyond the noise surrounding us. We must merely tap into it. This requires that we sit with the discomfort of silence. Connecting with this grounding source within becomes a wellspring of strength that carries us through life's highest waves and deepest lows.
Breathe. Trust. Surrender.
That is the journey of brave.
Pain, I feel you, and I will stay with you. I will not run. I will embrace you.
Fear, I see you. Thank you for showing me what I need to overcome. You’ve helped me to become strong. Hello old friend, you are welcome. Come be with me.
Shame, I feel your shadow hovering over me. I hear you whisper words of inadequacy. I know you come to protect me from feeling vulnerable. Thank you. You are no longer needed.
Peace, you are the light that comes from deep surrender. Abide with me.
Joy, you're the song of my soul. You transform deep sorrow and grief into song and strength.
Stillness, you are the unwavering strength within. Like water, you reflect the light of the sun and the moon. Ever present.
Healing - it all starts with stillness.
When I began writing this album, I thought the journey was solely about dismantling my heart and expressing myself authentically. But as I dove deeper into this process, I realized being brave is not so much an outward endeavor. It's the quiet journey inward to the stillness that lives beyond fear.
I hope these songs help you discover your own inner stillness and inner strength!
Remember: you, too, are brave.
Serenity and love,
Colleen
How to get a copy of “Brave”?
Email: colleenbartlettmusic@gmail.com ($10+shipping/handling)
iTunes: Click here
CD Baby (hard copy or digital): Click here