courage

Recently, courage was my 15 year old friend who, as a freshman, tried out for the lead role of the high school play~The Little Mermaid.  After hearing the exciting news that she was seriously being considered for the part of Ariel, she mustered up the courage to follow her personal convictions (knowing that it might jeopardize her chance of getting the part).  She told the director that if there was a Sunday show, she would not be able to perform that day.  (She had been taught by her parents that Sunday was a holy day to be reserved for worshipping, serving, studying her faith, and family time.  Her parents left the decision up to her, and she decided that she would not perform on Sunday).

Miraculously, she was given the part with an understudy for the Sunday show.  And then, she followed her convictions again.  This time, letting them know that she would need a modest costume for the part~ a dress with sleeves.  They told her that they would make a special costume just for her.

Courage is following your dreams and convictions.  Courage is starting a new job.  Courage is being a friend to the lonely.  Courage is not gossiping.  Courage is not always following the current fashion trends.  Courage is being who you really want to be, instead of trying to be like everyone else.

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face…You must do the thing you cannot do.            –Eleanor Roosevelt