Courage

Foundational

Value

What is Courage:

Courage, is a powerful value.

It’s called a strong value, because it involves summoning up one’s moral, mental, spiritual, and physical Will all at once, to have the necessary focus, determination, and personal energy to confront some danger, fear, or difficulty or challenge.

The value of courage, provides a person with the foundational strength to stand up for something they believe in, or likewise to stand against something they are opposed to. Most importantly, Courage is standing up for what is right, despite threats, personal consequences, danger, or rejection by others.

Courage is necessary for leaders to lead others. It provides the statement of conviction that a leader will act according to his or her own values; despite the danger to themselves it might pose. The example of courage when shown, is typically self-less and for the benefit of others who are defenseless or in need.

As Courage grows in a person, eventually it transforms into Fortitude; a strength of moral endurance that allows one to confront any danger/pain: for what is good and the true destiny of quality leadership.

Courage may be shown in small things or large circumstances. It could be shown by an individual or a group.

Examples of Courage:

Helping another in a crisis situation where there is strong potential for physical harm to oneself by acting. >> A Fireman running into a burning building to save a child trapped in a room.

We are courageous when we stand up for what is right and we stand against what is wrong. >> Standing up for our American Freedoms takes courage & sacrifice.

We are courageous when we are willing to take a risk to our personal reputation, relationships, well being; we are courageous when we are willing to make a selfless act on behalf of a friend, or a principle. >>> Standing Up Against Bullies Takes Courage. Standing Against Drugs Takes Courage. Standing Up Against Theft And Evil Takes Courage.

A young African American Woman, who shows the Courage to stand against discrimination that was embedded in her society. >> Rosa Parks in the “Bus Incident” where she refused to go to the “back of the bus” and by doing so, helped trigger civil rights protests throughout the south.

Taking charge of a situation and leading a group to face a mortal danger in order to achieve a higher good. >> An Army Sergeant leading his troops in War to overtake an enemy position; so they can bring relief to other soldiers being shot at on the beaches.

Deciding NO to abortion and YES to life. "I'm having my baby." >>The Teen Mom who got pregnant and her Boyfriend, who both refuse to abort their child; despite the pressure from others. They bravely stand-up for the "Sacredness of Life".

Anti-Value: Cowardice

Cowardice is the opposite of Courage.

Cowardice is not having bravery. It's the lack of Courage in facing danger, pain, or difficulty.

Typically, someone who is a Coward, is also un-trustworthy, un-dependable, weak, and self-absorbed.

Cowardice is not to be respected nor trusted.
A Coward is only out for himself or herself.
A Coward never leads, but instead, misleads others into bad situations, or harm.
A Coward avoids standing up for a belief, or a principle if it means there is nothing in it for them.
A Coward does not help others, just themselves
A Coward stands for nothing and risks nothing.

Biblical References of Courage:

Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Proverbs 28:1: “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.”

John 16:33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”