Courage and the “Graces”

The ancient Greek and Roman goddesses of beauty and kindness were called “Graces.” They were usually represented as three in number. The word grace (like the word courage, 1250-1300) originated in Medieval Old French (1125-75), and means kindness. In Webster’s Dictionary, gracious means “pleasantly kind, benevolent, or courteous.”

Princess Diana portrayed the essence of graciousness. She had a captivating and alluring presence that is missed (and missing) today. While people were in awe of her, this appealing quality is to some degree in everyone. I certainly know when I feel someone is being gracious to me because I feel touched by their aura. This wonderment is not about manners, such as receiving the rare thank-you note or even a thoughtful “you’re appreciated” gift, nor is it about decorum or gratitude. It’s more intangible. There is a feeling of respect that reaches out and lingers in the gesture. Hence, this elusive gift nurtures the spirit.

I find myself struggling with why I feel graciousness is so important and why it seems to have lost its favor. A few weeks ago at church the minister said, “There’s a principle called grace, and love is the manifestation. When someone is blessed with this experience they feel supported and respected.” Bingo! That’s the outcome—appreciated for the gifts the spirit is offering—gracing someone with genuineness. “With good grace” is a term used to mean willingly offering the gifts of the spirit. Hence, the substance of deference is authenticity, which is the outcome of living with courage.

A dear friend of mine coordinated a Native American pow-wow to celebrate her students’ graduation from middle school. When I inquired if the event were successful she tried to share with me the feelings she encountered with the American Indian tribes who came from all over the U.S. Lauren is a bright and articulate woman, but this time she was lost for words. She said, “I don’t know how to explain this; I was in awe! I was continually stunned by the gracious behaviors the Indians bestowed on their elders, the environment …and their children. Even the very youngest—the babies!—were being taught how to reach, smile, and shake hands as they enjoyed the accomplishments of others around them!”

Can you name three recent “gracious incidents” that left you with a sense of awe?

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Moral of the story: Praise women for their divine grace and be a role model. Notice if the “Graces” show up in your attitude and gestures. When you leave people in awe you know you have touched their spirit. You have left them with the most exquisite memory!

I would love for you to share your courage comments by posting them below.

Sandra Ford Walston is known as The Courage Expert and originator of StuckThinking™. She is an organizational effectiveness consultant, speaker, internationally published author of bestseller COURAGE, trainer and courage coach. She is certified in the Enneagram and MBTI®. Please visit www.walstoncourage.com.