Someone posted this quote on Twitter recently.
Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen. The quote was not attributed to anyone.
In today's charged political and religious climate this quote comes at a most appropriate time. Opponents used to discuss issues on which they differed with each other. In this day and age it is more likely for opponents to make their views known among those of like mind via social networking and other media. The rhetoric is often personal, seldom well thought out and increasingly hostile.
Valid viewpoints often go unheard nor considered by opponents. Countries and people become charged with animosity, even hatred.
Courage to speak involves preparation and due diligence. Courage also takes compassion and wisdom. It is in tune with it audience. Courage knows when withhold comment. Courage creates a climate of respect by knowing how and when to speak and take appropriate action.
Having courage does not assure that we will not have enemies but it assists us in not making "needless" opponents.
Having courage is far more likely to bring people together than push them apart.
It takes a wise person to have true courage.
So who am I and who are you? Are we part of the problem or part of the solution? Does our life represent true courage do we retreat to anger, a unprepared mind and name calling.
True courage takes time, work and wisdom. True courage is often first led by example than spoken with insight and strength.
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