Without such moments of fortitude, we could not get anything accomplished or
create real social connections. Life would lack zest and integrity.
That's why, through history, courage has been considered one of the most
important virtues.
Philosophers have defined it as the mean struck between cowardice and rashness.
Philosophers have defined it as the mean struck between cowardice and rashness.
Ancient Greek philosophers, especially the Stoics, expounded a great deal on the forms of courage. Like Jesus, Socrates lived it, accepting execution for the sake of teaching what he believed was just.
It's a cross-cultural virtue. The Chinese philosopher Confucius taught: "Faced with what is right, to leave it undone shows a lack of courage."
An even simpler understanding of courage is inferred in a story about a Japanese Zen teacher who was asked what it was like to be enlightened.
He said: "Nothing special. When I fall down, I get up again."
And who gets up? "A new Zen master."
In other words, even tiny acts of courage renew us and the world.
Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Courage+takes+many+forms/8168945/story.html#ixzz2OxVm9LdV
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