To Live With Courage Is an Every Day Virtue

The courage of individuals are being tested more today than ever before. Fear runs rampant as senseless massacres occur in our schools, and on the streets. In addition to all of this, now we are told to keep ourselves quarantined to protect us from a strange killer virus. Life's challenges present obstacles that sometimes make us want to give up.

The more courage we can demonstrate, as we face these trials, the less power each obstacle has over us. How do you define courage?

• Bravery - courage in the face of danger, difficulty, or pain.
• Mettle - spirited determination, ( a new word for me).
• Fearlessness - resoluteness in the face of dangers or challenges.
• Valor - courage, especially that shown in war or battle.
• Guts - the strength of character and boldness.
• Nerve - coolness, steadiness, and self-assurance.

We no longer need to feel victimized. We may not be able to change the circumstances, but we can certainly change our thinking. And once we have changed our thoughts to positive, productive inner-dialogue, we are on the road to a happier life and success.

In the classic film, "The Wizard of Oz", we meet the Cowardly Lion. His journey is to meet the Wizard and ask him for courage. The lion lives in dreaded fear and wants to be brave more than anything. He learns such a valuable lesson and one that applies to us all. Fear exists only in our mind. Whenever we take a step into the unknown, we take a risk.

The following tips will help to build your courage:Ask your boss for a raise

• Audition for a community musical
• Ask for a date
• Say "no"
• Ask for a job or position
• Ask for a favor
• Ask for forgiveness
• Learn to say no

Courage will help you strengthen your relationship with yourself and allow yourself to see the truth.

When I think of courage, I think of people such as:

• Christopher Reeves
• Winston Churchill
• Mahatma Gandhi
• Mother Theresa
• Martin Luther King
• Rosa Parks
• John E Kennedy
• Eleanor Roosevelt

These are well known people, however I have had the honor of meeting other courageous, unknown individuals. Those who persevere, ordinary people, facing insurmountable challenge, furnish me with not only the desire to stand up for what is right...but to conquer my fears.

John C Maxwell, author and lecturer, said..."Every time you prepare to take action, fear will to some degree come into play. It is at those times that you must rely on courage."

Make me the map of courage

Allow me to show the way

No detours and no shortcuts

This is what I pray

I want to be an example

Of doing the right thing

Even ‘tho a tear may fall

“Stay strong”, my voice will ring

Make me a map of courage

Supporting my fellow man

And giving good direction

To everyone I can

My life has not been easy

And soon my life may end

I’ll leave my map of courage

And love to you, my friend.