I received a book in March of 2005 from my daughter, Elizabeth. Courage was written by Bernard Waber. It’s a picture book which explains there are all types of courage. She received a copy from the vice-president of the company she was working for at the time. During a presentation to his employees, he asked everyone to think of someone who had been a leader in their life. Elizabeth wrote a card for me to accompany the book. She explained she thought of me when offered the choice. I was flattered. It’s one thing for your child to think this, but it’s entirely different when they let you know. I’m fortunate my three have all expressed such a thought.
She also hoped I could find a creative way to use the book. When I retired in 2008 I bought a copy for each member of my staff. That was my creative usage. We read the book aloud with each member reading a new passage. I explained we were all going to need courage over the next several months. I was retiring, and they were getting a new leader. Both presented new challenges and would require courage.
Waber offers there are many types of courage. There are awesome kinds and everyday kinds. Courage is starting over. Being the first to make up after an argument. Sending a valentine to someone you secretly admire, and signing your real name.
One of my third grade teachers shared the book with her class and asked each to write an example of courage accompanied by a drawing. She assembled their work in a spiral bound book and presented it to me. I ran across it while unpacking yesterday. The entries included these thoughts. Giving instead of receiving. The first day of school. Not sneaking to look at your Christmas presents. Trying new things you were scared to do when you were a kid. I think their observations were pretty insightful for a group of eight-year-olds.
The past fifteen months have tested everyone’s courage. We’ve been asked to work together to fight an invisible enemy. The first several months offered the greatest challenges because it was so new. We were glued to our television sets, and logged into social media, to gain insight and direction. Each of us made a decision to follow the advice to mask up, socially distance, wash our hands frequently, and hunker down until we were told it was safe to move about. We didn’t like it, but most of us followed the advice. We thought it best for the collective good.
Near the end of 2020 we heard the news of the successful development of a vaccine to ward off the virus. It was developed at “warp speed”. Moving forward at such a pace required courage. Most were amazed the success came as fast as it did. Many are skeptical that it was developed too soon and are rightfully concerned of the potential for unknown consequences.
Ruth and I moved forward, and received the vaccine, based upon the recommendations we read and the urging of our elected leaders. We wanted to protect ourselves and be in a position to meet our grandson when he was born. We did our best to get near the front of the line. We understood there were some who had a negative reaction to the vaccine, but we mustered the courage to move forward just the same. After receiving it, our lives are a bit more normal. Ruth struggles with continuing to wear a mask, while I’m more accepting. We’ve done what we’ve done because we thought it best.
There’s a new struggle with the virus that some will continue to debate for a long time. They don’t trust the vaccine. They are concerned about the long term effects and refuse to make the move. While I don’t agree with that path, I respect their right to take it. I think an equally challenging struggle is the consequence of not receiving the vaccine. There may be a reluctance by some to include the non-vacciners in valued activities. Friends, and family members, with differing opinions could face the greatest challenge. That’s the price they may pay for having the courage to follow their beliefs.
Elizabeth shared two examples of courage with me. They’re written in the book she gave me. It’s on display in my office, and I see it everyday.
Courage is being a parent.
Courage is encouraging your family to follow their dreams, even when it takes them across the country.
I wouldn’t want it any other way.