Life Rebuilt
007 | 3 Ways to Be Courageous without Leaving Home with Melanie Burk
Courage begins in the heart. It’s what helps us shoulder unexpected and unwelcome responsibilities. It’s what keeps us moving in the face of fear. During these strange times, when COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down, we perform ordinary acts of courage every day without realizing it.
This week’s guest, Melanie Burk, is a mother of five, wife to a physician assistant, small business owner, and woman of faith. Like other Americans, the Burks have been sheltering in place and homeschooling for about three weeks.
In this episode, Melanie and I redefine courage for those who have been asked to “stay home, stay safe” during the COVID-19 pandemic. While traditional courage emphasizes physical action,* we emphasize the need for “mental strength to persevere.”
This type of courage isn’t about fixing or doing. It’s about enduring and being. It includes (1) courage to feel waves of heavy emotion, (2) courage to embrace stillness, and (3) courage to practice self-compassion.
Together, we explore the emotional demands of our collective heartache, as well as our individual opportunities to seek light and joy. We also share how faith in a loving God helps us get through the daily challenges of quarantine.
ALSO IN THIS EPISODE
Why emotional self-care is essential, not selfish, during quarantine. How to find stillness, even if your home is loud or busy. Simple ways to invite children into stillness with you. Why self-compassion is the secret to personal growth.
SHOW NOTES
Connect with Rachel on Instagram
Connect with Melanie Burk on Instagram
Three Elements of Self-Compassion
Christlike Parenting (Book)
Note: This list includes affiliate links to books mentioned in this episode. I receive a small commission for products purchased through these links, which helps to support free content on the podcast.
* We express gratitude to healthcare professionals, first responders, grocery store employees, and other essential personnel who cannot stay home during this pandemic and who continue to show extraordinary courage as they perform their regular responsibilities and keep our communities afloat.