Archive for April 29th, 2013
Courage
Courage is the ability to conquer fear; to confront danger, despair, pain and uncertainty.
Physical courage is required when facing the above, and, for most of us, death or the threat of death. Moral courage is ‘acting rightly’, especially in the face of opposition, popular opinion and/or peer pressure.
Ernest Hemingway defined courage as “grace under pressure’. Maya Angelou said, “Courage is the most important of the virtues, because without courage you can’t practice any other virtue consistently. You can practice any virtue erratically, but nothing consistently without courage.”
In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and the Tin Man form a supportive relationship, helping each other t0 overcome their individual fears and weaknesses, enabling them to follow the Yellow Brick Road. Along the way they endure many trials and tribulations. Arriving at Oz they discover a splendid truth; that courage resides within each of them.
Daily living requires courage. At times, just the act of getting out of bed and facing the day is valorous. Overcoming trauma, a difficult childhood, striving to become an independent and authentic person all demand courage as an integral part of the journey.
This week I invite you to reflect on your personal courage. Own the integrity, dignity and resilience that arise naturally from the practice of this essential virtue.