Words are obviously powerful and has certain meaning that is best reflected in our dictionary. The word courage distinctly reflect a tone of bravery and a resolve to do the hard things. It also denotes the idea of fearlessness to take on any challenge in spite of the outcome. All of us have a deep sense of appreciation and respect for those who are courageous. Such a person just leaves us grateful to have a high caliber person among us. These people are doing the difficult, they may be fearful but they are still moving ahead. They may not have all the answers but they have guts and resolve to move towards danger if it means helping someone. They are willing to jump in with both feet to ensure that the greater good is achieved. They will quickly say no to sure safety to help the helpless Indeed these people have the willpower. We would all like to believe that if we are in those positions were guts and resolved are required, that we all will respond to the call immediately. The interested thing is that many will run away and allow fear to take over our better judgement.

There is another perspective I would like to bring to our conversation and that is courage to guard your future and make decisions accordingly. Sometimes we find ourselves in a very thought spot, it may be injustice directed at us that cause deep anger. To not respond in kind would appear passive and such a person could have other label attached to their silence, but courage would not be one of them. For some people the only reason they don’t respond in kind to someone’s vicious behavior is because they have the courage not to be impulsive and erratic because they are preserving something more important. This person has courage to keep their eyes on the dream, on the prize. They may not respond to someone’s false accusations because they know that to do so at this time, and based on what they are feeling, will only propel them to loose their dignity and it will cost them way too much. They also know that their lack of restraint will create damage that they may or will later regret. Such a person has the courage to think long term; as the courage to exercise patience; as the courage to just walk away. Others looking on may see deficiency in not responding appropriately but this person may rather be exceptional in displaying strength and bravery. This person is intentional about preserving somethings that are more important than the moment calls for. They are guarding their future.

I think of first responder in any tragic situation that runs towards an active crime scene while others are running away. They deserves to be honored. However, I think of the young Dad that has determined that he will stop being immature, as he was a few years ago. He has a new and maybe even a late resolve, but he insist ” I am going to give it my best shot to love, honor, provide and pray for my children going forward. I am going to be a good example in their lives”. He deserve to be honored also, but often that’s not the case, and we understand that we don’t necessarily honor those who are fulfilling their responsibilities. However, sometimes courage is not always seen in outward bravery but occasionally it is displayed in private decisions we make. As young men and even those of us who are a little older, sometimes we need have the courage to follow our dreams and create something new and relevant. We need to resolve right in the midst of the difficult time to get through this day, this week, this month, this season in order to get over on the other side of the dream.

I believe that saying no to pride when that is your natural default takes courage. I believe loving your spouse in meaningful ways when they are very ill takes courage. I believe speaking well of your dissenters takes courage . We don’t always get the accolades from others in light of our private courageous moments, but we do get the opportunity to respect ourselves more, as we reflect on our choices. Sometimes, you are the only one that will know of all the options you had, you choose the most difficult of them all because you knew it was the right thing to do.

Can we have the courage to make the right decisions today so we or someone else can have a better opportunity tomorrow?

Now go take on the day.