Courage is a skill that is not generally brought up in a topic of social conversation around the table or a party. But, if you were asked if you are are a courageous person what would you say? How would you answer? You may want to take your time and deliberate when you demonstrated courage, like travelling on your own, standing your ground when intimated by another person or simply not giving up etc. The list is endless!
Or perhaps you may instantly say yes because you have always done what you wanted regardless.
A definition of courage is a good clarifying starting point, which is where I started. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, courage is defined as "mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty" Definition
While I believe that many people are courageous in their day to day lives, courage is a skill that is generally assigned to soldiers, firemen, police, paramedics and or to individuals who place their own lives at risk to rescue others. These braves acts are often viewed as exceptional ones so much so that they are commemorated with special fanfare ceremonies where medals are handed out by prominent dignitaries like a mayor, premier, president, king or queen.
But, realise you are probably more courageous than you think. Little acts of helping others who are in trouble, facing difficulties or hurdles all fall under the umbrella of courage. Many helping deeds are never recognised by 'important' dignitaries in special ceremonies, but in the end we don't do good things to be patted on the back. We just do them. Standing up for ourselves and for others against racism, bigotry, small mindedness and general wrong doings shows a strength of character. It shows courage.
The trick is to be open to being brave. You may be born with a truck load of courage or you may develop it along your journey if you want to. It is up to you.
Cheers, thank you for dropping by
This photo comes from my library, it is far too cold, wet and windy to even venture out this afternoon. So I am making do with an old favourite ocean view
