Embracing Courage In The Serenity Prayer
We continue our reflection on the Serenity Prayer, a simple yet profound guide practiced by millions to cultivate humility, maintain perspective, and discern the right actions in the face of ever-changing and uncertain circumstances.
If you recall, the prayer goes:
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
This week, we’re focusing on the theme: Courage to change the things I can. Let’s explore this together.
Courage: The Willingness to Change
Wanting change is easy; making change is hard. Many people desire transformation, but few take the necessary steps. The Serenity Prayer reminds us to ask for courage—because real change requires stepping beyond the familiar. Often, our own thinking has kept us stuck, and without an external shift in perspective or energy, we may continue repeating old patterns. True growth requires courage—to let go of beliefs and behaviors that once provided security but now hold us back. Moving toward a healthier life may feel uncomfortable at times, but courage helps us embrace that discomfort and press on toward our goals.
Change: Embracing the Inevitable
In my experience—both personally and with clients—I’ve seen how people can be both obsessed with change and terrified of it. On one hand, we long for change, believing we won’t be okay until things shift in our favor. On the other hand, we resist change, fearing the disruption it might bring. This internal struggle causes stress, often leading us back into unhealthy habits.
Change is an unavoidable reality. Rather than striving to force or resist it, we can cultivate acceptance. The Serenity Prayer reminds us that while we are part of a vast and dynamic universe beyond our control, we do have agency. Our responsibility is to recognize where we can make a difference and use our opportunities wisely to create positive change—for ourselves and for others.
Can: The Power of Possibility
I’ve grown to love the simple word can. In a world that often tells us what we can’t do, can is a quiet revolution. There is profound joy in realizing our own agency. Think of a child learning a new skill—folding clothes, riding a bike, tying their shoes. After repeated efforts, frustrations, and guidance, they finally succeed and exclaim, “Look! I did it! I can!”
In a way, the Serenity Prayer calls us back to that childlike joy—the awareness that progress is possible. It encourages us to take uncertain first steps, trusting that growth is within our reach. Too often, adults tell themselves stories about why they can’t do something. While it’s true that we have limitations, we often underestimate what we can do. Consider this your invitation to believe in your own potential—to trust that you can do more than you may think.
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on the themes of Courage, Change, and Can. What resonates with you today? Jot down your thoughts and commit to taking one simple action that aligns with your reflection.
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