Courage means standing up for what is right, even when what is right is not popular, and you have to stand alone. Courage is also visible when we challenge ourselves to explore new interests. Difficult things are rarely accomplished with ease. It takes courage to accept the fact that we won't always be successful in everything we try, but the success is in the effort. We may not get the part we wanted in the school play or get the position we wanted on the football team, but we become more courageous with every effort we make. Sometimes, as with our soldiers overseas right now, courage becomes a matter of life or death. When people are fighting for a cause dear to their hearts, courage carries them through, although not without fear.
Teens as well as adults are often torn when making decisions affecting their popularity or status. It is difficult for students and people in general to say no to friends who want them to participate in things unproductive and ultimately dangerous, such as drug use, vandalism, gossip, cheating, stealing and even apathy to school or work. Sometimes saying no to what the apparent majority are doing makes people feel "uncool" or alone. The ability to rise above that demonstrates real courage.
The challenge is to step out of your comfort zone and try something new, or stand up for something you believe in. You may not make cheerleader, or the team or the part you wanted in the play, but as is often said, "it is not the end of the world", and it really isn't. It may even be a new beginning of a new you that is developing the confidence to realize that it's not the destination, but the journey, not the outcome, but the road traveled. Rarely do people do great things without great effort, often compromise and even risk. Step out onto your own stage! You might be surprised at all you can achieve when you get out there and live your life like you can't fail!
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