personal essay about courage

Essay About Courage: Top 5 Examples and 6 Prompts 

Courage covers a range of topics and meanings. Here are examples and prompts to help you write your essay about courage.

Many believe bravery and courage mean the same thing and even use them interchangeably. However, though both describe heroic acts, they are not the same. Where bravery is the lack of fear, courage is taking action despite it. 

Some argue that courage takes more strength because it means sharing your story even though you may be ridiculed, rejected, and misunderstood. It takes courage to admit when you’re hurt or feel lost, vulnerable, and need help. 

If you’re having problems channeling and describing what courage is, here are examples that will assist you in connecting with this subject:

1. My Opinion About Courage by Gary Collins

2. moral courage by fernando wood, 3. courage by benjamin patrick, 4. the importance of courage by saloni, 5. essay on courage by manasi shewale, 1. what does courage mean to you, 2. your most courageous act, 3. a courageous hero, 4. things you are most afraid of, 5. what creates doubt, 6. a time when you failed to show courage and regretted it.

“And even then, she had no grudge against the world. She doesn’t think the world owes her. She never takes money or even grains that she hasn’t earned.”

In this essay, Collins shares his experience with courage through someone named Sunita. Sunita told Collins about her life and what made her who she is. Such as at a very young age, she fought to support herself because no one would have done that for her, and many other tales. 

Her stories made Collins realize how lucky he is and how he should be grateful for the many opportunities that come his way without the need to suffer as she did. He also includes that Sunita lives on to inspire others with her courage.

Check out these essays about beliefs .

“Moral courage is standing up for values such as honesty, fairness, compassion, respect, and responsibility but just having these values are not enough we have to try to put them into practice, and we have to commit to moral principles as well…”

Moral courage is doing what’s right and following what your conscience dictates. Wood has three significant elements of moral courage: principle, endurance, and danger.

He explains moral courage through Geoge Norris, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Youssafzai. These people took risks even if their lives were in danger to follow their conscience and do the right things. Wood instills that moral courage is essential in making a critical move, especially when choosing the greater good.

“Courage is the only thing that gets us through the hard times, and the tempting opportunities. Courage is vital to the evolution of the human population. It is also an essential quality to becoming a successful person.”

Patrick discusses how courage helps a person succeed in life. He mentions that we all have courage, but some use it differently than others.

He gives an example of a girl who plays hockey, where the other members are all boys. They looked down on her because of her gender. But instead of giving up, she took it as a challenge and courageously showed them she could play at their level. She became friends with most of the team, but there was one boy who kept on bullying her. The boy misused his courage, but the girl used her courage to fight him off.

“Courage is mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is the firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.”

Saloni’s essay shows two kinds of courage: physical and moral. People who depend on physical strength show physical courage. They can protect and help others. If a person is weak, they are not physically courageous. 

On the other hand, one’s honesty connects to their moral courage. They are the ones with convictions and don’t support evil works. Even if you are a weak person, you can still be morally courageous. Unfortunately, this courage is rare nowadays because people are afraid of being attacked mentally and emotionally. To be morally courageous means to be a fighter to go against wrong-doings.

“It is very difficult to keep up your morals and therefore, gather up the necessary courage to fight against the wrong situations. Therefore, in today’s date, it is even rarer to find a person with the proper morals required to live a satisfactory life.”

Shewale shares little acts of courage in our everyday lives – such as a girl who loves to dance but is afraid of the stage or a person who’s readying themselves for a job interview. Courage is not only shown in grand scenes but in small acts that help us survive our daily lives.

The author further discusses events where courage helps in more controversial fields, such as injustices to farmers and students’ bullying. 

If you want to upgrade your writing style, check out these top essay writing tips to level up your essay.

6 Prompts on Essay About Courage

After reading relevant examples in essays about courage, it’s now your turn to try your hand at creating one. Below are prompts that can guide you in your essay writing:

There is no one definition of courage. It differs from each individual, and its meaning is affected by our experiences and knowledge. In this prompt, share the word “courage” and discuss what courage means to you. When do you feel courageous, and why? Then, describe personal experiences of being courageous or stories of courageous people who inspire you.

Think about a time when you were courageous. Create an essay based on this event and describe in detail what happened. Convey your thoughts and feelings, and show why you were courageous. 

Write an essay about a hero in your life. This could be a celebrity you admire, a relative or friend, or a teacher in school. Describe why this person is courageous, why you look up to them, and how they inspire you. Make sure to include fine details of their personality and how they act. This will make for an exciting and compelling essay.

The first step to being courageous is acknowledging you are afraid. Then, to get your fears out of the way, you need to identify what and why they exist. This prompt lets you connect with your readers who have the same worries. 

For example, you can share that you’re afraid of rejection, being alone, etc. Then, discuss why and what you plan to do to overcome them. You can also write about how you plan to be courageous while still afraid.

Our greatest challenge to succeeding in something is doubting ourselves. When we doubt ourselves, we start to think of all the things that can go wrong. So we show our courage by being afraid of these negative consequences but still trying and hoping for a good result. 

Share an experience when you still tried, even when you’re unsure. It doesn’t need to have the best ending. You only have to prove that it’s better to try and fail than fail without trying at all. 

There will always be times when we desperately want to be more courageous but fail to do so due to various factors. Write about that experience, share your feelings, and what you’ll do if you have the chance to repeat that situation. 

Do you want to write about another topic aside from courage? Check out this list of best writing topics for students !

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Essay on Personal Courage

Students are often asked to write an essay on Personal Courage in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Personal Courage

What is personal courage.

Personal courage is being brave in the face of fear. It’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. Imagine standing up to a bully or speaking in front of a class. It takes guts to face challenges and not run away.

Types of Courage

There are many kinds of courage. Physical courage is about risking your safety. Moral courage means standing up for your beliefs. Emotional courage involves sharing your feelings, even if you might get hurt.

Why It Matters

Courage is important because it helps us grow. When we are brave, we can make new friends, learn new things, and become stronger inside. It’s like a muscle that gets better the more you use it.

Examples in Everyday Life

You show courage when you try new foods, ask a question in class, or help someone who is in trouble. It’s not just for superheroes; it’s for everyone, every day.

Building Personal Courage

You can become braver by practicing. Start with small things, like riding a bike without training wheels. Each brave act makes the next one easier. Remember, it’s okay to be scared; what matters is that you don’t let fear stop you.

250 Words Essay on Personal Courage

Personal courage is the strength to face fear, pain, or challenges. It’s like being a superhero in real life, but instead of fighting bad guys, you’re battling your own fears. It’s not about being fearless, but about choosing to move forward even when you’re scared.

Types of Personal Courage

There are two main types: physical and moral. Physical courage means you can stand up to physical pain or danger, like defending a friend in trouble. Moral courage is standing up for what’s right, like speaking the truth even when it’s not easy.

Why is it Important?

Courage is key to growing up. It helps us try new things, like making a new friend or learning to swim. It also helps us stand up for ourselves and others. With courage, we can face bullies or admit when we’ve made a mistake.

How to Build Courage

Building courage takes practice. It’s like a muscle that gets stronger the more you use it. You can start with small challenges, like asking a question in class. Each time you face a fear and overcome it, you become a little braver.

In conclusion, personal courage is a special power we all have inside us. It helps us face tough times and do the right thing. Remember, being courageous doesn’t mean you aren’t afraid; it means you’re brave enough to go on despite the fear.

500 Words Essay on Personal Courage

Personal courage is about being brave and facing your fears. It’s not just for superheroes or soldiers; it’s for everyone. Imagine standing in front of a crowd to give a speech or trying something new like riding a bike for the first time. That feeling in your stomach, like butterflies fluttering, is fear. Being courageous means you go ahead and do it, even though you’re scared.

Courage comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s doing something big, like moving to a new city. Other times, it’s small, like asking a question in class. Physical courage is when you might get hurt, like falling off a bike. Moral courage is when you stand up for what’s right, like telling the truth even if it gets you in trouble.

Why Is It Important?

Being brave helps us grow. When you try new things, you learn and become stronger. It’s like a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Courage also helps us to be good friends and family members. When we stand up for others, we show that we care and are willing to protect them.

Stories of Courage

Think about your favorite stories. Many of them have brave characters, like Harry Potter fighting a dragon. These stories inspire us. They show us that even when things are hard, we can be brave and do what’s right.

You can become more courageous. Start with small steps. If you’re afraid of talking to new people, start by just saying “hi” to someone. Keep practicing, and soon, you’ll be having full conversations. Remember, it’s okay to be scared. Everyone is scared sometimes. The key is to not let fear stop you.

Personal Courage in Everyday Life

You don’t have to fight dragons to be brave. Personal courage is also about standing up to bullies, trying a food you’ve never eaten before, or admitting when you’ve made a mistake. It’s about being honest with yourself and others.

Encouraging Others

When you see someone else being brave, cheer them on. Tell them they did a good job. It can make a big difference. And when someone encourages you, it feels good and helps you keep being brave.

Personal courage is a special kind of bravery that everyone has inside them. It’s about facing your fears, big or small, and doing the right thing even when it’s hard. By being brave, we learn, grow, and can help others. Remember, it’s okay to start small, and with each brave step, you’ll become more courageous. So, next time you’re feeling a little scared, take a deep breath, and remember that you have the power to be brave.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on How I Spent My Holiday
• Essay on Personal Challenges
• Essay on Personal Beliefs

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Duke TIP Navigator

The official magazine for TIPsters in 4th–6th grade

Turning Fear into Confidence—A Personal Essay

October 14, 2020

Facing obstacles throughout your life is inevitable, and the obstacles you overcome can define who you are as a person. Not only will this build character and self-confidence, it will show others how strong you remained and inspire them to overcome their own challenges.

But overcoming obstacles is no simple task. Most obstacles are incredibly hard and testing. Yet, by overcoming them, you will come to understand why they are important. The significance of overcoming obstacles in life is to make you more grounded, courageous, and wise. For me, one of these life-altering obstacles emerged during my undergraduate years.

I had a serious fear of public speaking. There were times where I would struggle with presentations and in-class discussions. When these sessions would take place, my fear built up in a pressure cooker of discouragement and convulsive anguish. I felt humiliated before my teachers, partners, and most of all, my close friends. I soon realized, however, that the same people who seemed to be the source of my fear became my lifeline, their inspirational words filling my mind and heart with positive thoughts.

Seeing my struggles, my peers tried to build me up, to increase my confidence in myself and convince me that anything, including overcoming my fear of public speaking, could be accomplished with enough enthusiasm and belief in oneself.

The obstacles we face in life can distort how we see ourselves and cripple our ability to face our fears. By facing these conflicts head on, though, we can completely flip their effect on us, transforming them into experiences that strengthen our resilience and push the boundaries of what we think is possible to achieve.

Taking everything into account everything I’ve learned from this experience and many others like it that I’ve encountered in my life, it’s clear that obstacles are impossible to avoid, and when you do encounter them, you must view them as learning opportunities. You might just surprise yourself at how easily you overcome them.

This post was written by Duke TIP’s outgoing Marketing & Communications intern, Christina Gordon. Christina graduated from North Carolina Central University in the spring of 2020.

About Duke TIP

The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) is a nonprofit organization that has served over three million academically talented students in grades 4–12 since it was founded in 1980. Collaborating with educators and parents, TIP helps gifted students assess the extent of their academic abilities with above-grade-level testing, recognizes them for their achievements, and provides them with a variety of enrichment benefits as well as accelerated face-to-face and online educational programs.

5 Inspiring Essays on Courage

Courage is a value held in high regard. There are countless quotes and explanations of what “courage” is. Some believe it’s the same as being fearless, while others say that courage is doing the right thing even if you’re afraid. Brene Brown says that “You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort, but you can’t choose both.” Courage is about stepping outside of what’s familiar and comfortable. Here are five essays exploring what courage looks like:

“The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage” (2017) – Susan David

While technically not an essay, the transcript from this 2017 TEDTalk (and the speech itself) is a powerful exploration of emotional courage. Dr. Susan David, who lost her father when she was 15, describes how she dealt with grief. Societies often encourage people to suppress these types of emotions. She talks about a “radical acceptance” of every emotion, even the hard ones, and how this acceptance is necessary for true happiness. This acceptance isn’t easy. It takes courage. She has an especially poignant way of describing courage: she calls it “fear walking.”

Dr. Susan David is a world-leading management thinker and Harvard Medical School psychologist. She’s also an author and contributor to publications like The Harvard Business Review, New York Times, and more. David lectures around the world for clients like the United Nations, Google, and the World Economic Forum.

“Profile in Courage” (2004) – Dana Calvo

The photo of a single protester facing off a line of tanks is one of history’s most iconic images. In this essay from Smithsonian Magazine, readers learn the story behind it. In 1989, students from over three dozen universities gathered in Tiananmen Square to protest government corruption, joblessness, and attacks on free speech. The government declared martial law, sending tens of thousands of troops to the area. Violence erupted. Several hundred protesters were killed, thousands wounded. The story of the photograph, taken by 33-year old Jeff Widener of the Associated Press, is a story of courage.

Dana Calvo is a former national and foreign journalist. She now works in television.

“This Is A Crisis of Civil-Military Relations” (2020) – Eliot A. Cohen

In this piece, author Eliot Cohen examines what’s going on with military leadership in the age of the Trump administration. While these people are willing to “take a bullet” for America and take on responsibility for the “gravest decisions anyone can make,” they must now show a different kind of courage. Under President Trump’s leadership, the military brass must stand up and risk getting fired. While this essay describes a specific situation between two incredibly powerful branches of American society, it taps into the essence of courage. Courage comes with risks. It often requires people to risk something they didn’t anticipate losing.

Eliot A. Cohen is the dean of The John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. He served as the Counselor of the Department of State from 2007-2009. A contributing writer at The Atlantic, he’s also the author of The Big Stick: The Limits of Soft Power and the Necessity of Military Force.

“How To Find and Practice Courage” (2020) – Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries

This essay opens with a story of a CEO who went against shareholder advice to do what he believed was right, even as he feared the consequences. What gave him courage? Had it always been there under the surface? If you’re interested in brain science and the psychology behind courage, this is a great piece. At the end, it offers techniques on how to “practice courage,” such as going out of your comfort zone and taking care of your body when it’s afraid.

Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries is a psychoanalyst, management scholar, and executive coach. At INSEAD in France, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore , he is the Distinguished Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Organizational Change. He wrote Down the Rabbit Hole of Leadership: Leadership Pathology in Everyday Life (2018).

“The Six Attributes of Courage” – Melanie Greenberg

What is courage? It’s something most people recognize when they see it, but there are different kinds of courage. In this essay, Dr. Greenberg briefly describes six defining characteristics of courage. She uses quotes from people like Nelson Mandela, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and others. Attributes include following your heart and letting go of what’s familiar and comfortable. The piece concludes with a courage-building exercise.

Dr. Melanie Greenberg is a psychologist, speaker, author, and coach. Her book The Stress-Proof Brain is an Amazon bestseller. She travels the world giving talks to non-profits, businesses, and professional organizations. Active on Twitter, she has been featured in media like CNN, Forbes, BBC Radio, and more.

Education Articles & More

Six ways to find your courage during challenging times, courage doesn’t have to look dramatic or fearless. sometimes it looks more like quiet perseverance..

“We teach who we are,” says educational philosopher Parker Palmer.

Early in my teaching career, I participated in a series of retreats led by the Center for Courage and Renewal, inspired by Palmer’s book The Courage to Teach . Palmer reminds us that our sense of self plays out in our work every day—and living with courage and integrity means finding balance and alignment between our inner and outer selves. In other words, our identities, values, and beliefs inform the selves we bring to others.

But how do we find the courage to stand up for our coworkers, students, neighbors, family and friends, and ourselves amid exhausting and unprecedented challenges? The truth is, I’m not particularly thrilled with the person I’ve been bringing to work lately. On some mornings, I’m simply looking for the courage to get out of bed.

If you are like me, there are days when you feel emotionally weary, inept, and cynical—all characteristics of burnout . However, I’m finding that the science of courage offers a psychological lifeline, helping us to clarify what really matters so that we can find a steadier, values-based resolve—and even inspire it in others. I dove into the courage research with teachers in mind, but these tips are for everyone.

Fortunately, courage comes in many forms. Although definitions range, researchers tend to agree that it features three primary components: a risk, an intention, and a goal that may benefit others. In a classic example, a student defends a peer who is being verbally assaulted by a bully, by interrupting the bully and telling them to stop. This purposeful act may come at a cost—perhaps socially or physically.

But courage doesn’t have to look dramatic or fearless. We express it in both bold and quiet ways. In fact, “ general courage ,” the confident or seemingly brazen actions perceived by others, differs from “ personal courage ,” those actions that are courageous in the minds of the actors themselves. It all depends on how you view the challenge in front of you and the fears associated with performing a particular behavior. In other words, these days, some of us may need significant “personal courage” to get out of bed and face the day on behalf of those students we value and care about.

Why is just showing up courageous? Daily stressors can pile up, leading to emotional exhaustion, a sense of detachment from your work, and the feeling that you simply aren’t as capable as you thought you were—and if you don’t feel capable, you may not feel particularly confident. Yet courage is also associated with other positive character strengths , like persistence and integrity.

The good news is that there are many ways to tap into our capacity for courage, whether we are adults or students. Here are six.

1. See yourself as courageous

First, if we describe ourselves as “courageous,” we are more likely to act courageously . In other words, if I tell myself that I’m a courageous person as I park in the school parking lot and walk into my school, it may actually give me a psychological boost and inspire me to meet the day with greater self-assurance.

Alternatively, we can take time to note and label all the courageous actions we have already taken in our lives. For example, when you consider how your childhood struggles inform your current relationships with coworkers or students, or how you made it through college as a single mom, or how you’ve learned to cope with a chronic health issue, you may be more likely to experience positive emotions while reconnecting with personal values and beliefs that can inspire future courageous behaviors.

Consider conducting an inventory of past actions with your students or colleagues so that you can identify and celebrate individual acts of courage together. Then, discuss how those actions influence who you are now and who you want to be.

2. Get comfortable with “mistakes”

We can recognize and celebrate courage with others, but it can also be a very internal, day-to-day experience. One of the most common ways we practice courage at work is in our pursuit of learning and personal growth. Research tells us that fear of failure can negatively correlate with courage, but what if it’s OK to make mistakes—and they are even welcomed learning tools?

Studies indicate that students may benefit from making mistakes (and correcting them) rather than avoiding them at all costs. And when researchers reviewed 38 studies of resilience in response to failure, errors, or mistakes, they found that more resilient individuals had lower levels of perfectionism and a more positive way of explaining past events: “I haven’t solved this long division problem yet, but I’ll try another strategy next.”

Another way to address fear of failure is through a simple practice you can share with your students or colleagues called “ Crumpled Reminder ,” where you write about a recent mistake you made, crumple up a paper representing your feelings about that mistake, and then discuss the ways mistakes strengthen brain activity and help us to learn and grow.

Crumpled Reminder

Write down a recent mistake and your feelings about it, and then crumple up the paper. Then reflect on how your mistakes help you learn.

Rather than fearing looming “failures,” seeing daily missteps as opportunities for learning frees all of us to appreciate learning for what it is—a process rather than a performance.

3. Keep trying

Courage at work also requires perseverance. As our fears lessen, we are more likely to persist in learning—to keep trying despite the obstacles ahead of us. And perseverance (or persistence), as a character strength, can also be modeled, observed, and developed. In fact, when adults model persistence in working toward a goal, infants as young as 15 months tend to mimic that behavior.

As teachers, we have a lot of power to influence our students’ efforts by sharing our own vulnerabilities while we read a challenging text, our own self-conscious emotions as we outline a timed essay, our stops and starts while solving a word problem, and our commitment to keep going.

And research suggests that teachers’ growth mindsets, or belief that intelligence grows and changes with effort, can be linked to the development of students’ growth mindsets. This more positive, flexible mindset can improve students’ performance at school, boost their well-being and social competence , and even promote kind, helpful, and prosocial actions. All these benefits may bolster our capacity for courageous actions, too.

4. Look for the heroes

Of course, if we are feeling apathetic, anxious, or fearful about stepping up and doing that next best thing at school or in life, it can be helpful to draw inspiration from others—whether near or far, real or fictional.

According to research , the individuals we admire may represent some aspect of our ideal selves as they demonstrate moral courage through difficult times and a desire to do good in the world. They can also inspire us to live more meaningful lives. Studies suggest that seeing images of heroes may move us to sense greater meaning in our lives—and even increase our drive to help others.

Basic social cognitive theory tells us that we are motivated through “vicarious experiences”—as we witness others’ actions. In fact, when adults observe courageous behaviors in their workplaces , like a teacher standing up for a group of students or a colleague advocating for an important policy, they are more likely to see the potential for organizational change and feel inspired to act courageously themselves.

Our students can benefit from models of courage, too. In the “ Who Are Your Heroes? ” lesson from Giraffe Heroes Project , students listen to and present hero stories, while exploring the risks and benefits of courageous acts. Stories like these can communicate shared values , make us more  empathic , and may  encourage us to help others .

5. Clarify your values

You may recognize heroism or courage in others, but sometimes struggle to see it in yourself. If so, it may be helpful to ask yourself a few key questions:

• What do I value in myself?
• What do I “stand for”?
• What is important to me?
• What are some of my successes and accomplishments?

When researchers measured teachers’ responses to prompts like these, they found that teachers’ anxiety immediately decreased—and they experienced more positive emotions over time when compared to a control group. Teachers’ values drive their goals and behaviors at school, while supporting their well-being and a sense of self-efficacy at work. If we feel clear and capable, we may also feel more courageous.

Philosophers consider courage to be a foundational virtue because it guides us to act on behalf of other virtues or values. In fact, our convictions, values, sense of integrity, honor, and loyalty can all influence our courageous actions. When we experience a threat to our moral code, we are likely to act in a way that upholds our beliefs and values. And the more powerful the belief , the more likely you will not be influenced or swayed by those around you.

You and your students can clarify your values and explore your character strengths through a range of simple practices for both adults and students , like Discovering Your Strengths and Talents , Eight Inner Strengths for Leaders , and Reminders that Encourage Moral Character Strengths .

6. Become part of a social force for courage

Finally, we can act on our values in community. After more than a year of isolation from each other—and the prospect of ongoing public health, environmental, and sociocultural crises—we are finding courage again in groups.

More Education Resources

Visit Greater Good in Education for more information, tips, and practices to support teacher and student well-being. To dive deeper into the research behind these practices and strategies, register for one of our online courses for educators .

Teachers and students are participating in social and emotional communities of practice, circles of courage , and other “ circles ” practices to nurture a sense of belonging, find emotional support, and engage in collective action. Studies indicate that social groups like these promote interdependence, social identity, and cohesion and influence courageous behavior, too.

And one of the most empowering things we can do for our students right now is to support them in being courageous community problem solvers, too.

Tribes Learning Communities  curricula focus on active learning and community building among adults and students to reduce violence and increase kindness. For example, in their lesson “ Put Down the Put-Downs ,” students consider how hurtful name-calling really feels and brainstorm ways to end the problem in their classrooms and school. In this case, perspective taking and empathic responses can lead to more courageous and impassioned student action, cultivating a positive school and classroom climates where everyone is  honored and valued .

Further, in the lesson “ It’s Up to Us to Stick Our Necks Out ,” students share stories about everyday heroes drawn from a free story bank , and then learn to “Be the Story” by selecting, planning, and enacting a service learning project to address a community challenge (such as homelessness, clean air or water, or a need for increased literacy). As we act on our values together, we may feel a greater sense of agency in a world that feels topsy-turvy right now.

During those dark, winter mornings when you really don’t want to crawl out of bed and face the day, remember that courage can also be a very private, personal act. There will always be risks and challenges to face, but what really matters most—in your gut? Is it love, learning, curiosity, compassion, hope? How do these values inform who you are and how you show up in the world?

These are the key questions that can help us to frame our truest intentions—even on our most difficult days.

New Course! Courage in Education

Face Challenges with Strength, Determination, and Hope

About the Author

Amy L. Eva, Ph.D. , is the associate education director at the Greater Good Science Center. As an educational psychologist and teacher educator with over 25 years in classrooms, she currently writes, presents, and leads online courses focused on student and educator well-being, mindfulness, and courage. Her new book, Surviving Teacher Burnout: A Weekly Guide To Build Resilience, Deal with Emotional Exhaustion, and Stay Inspired in the Classroom, features 52 simple, low-lift strategies for enhancing educators’ social and emotional well-being.

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The Six Attributes of Courage

Quotes and exercises to help you be your best and bravest self..

Posted August 23, 2012 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

• Courage is not just physical bravery; it can also mean speaking out against injustice, for example, or taking a financial risk to follow a dream.
• Courage also means feeling afraid, yet choosing to act anyway.
• Reflecting on one's past displays of courage can help summon more courage for the present.

Courage is something that everybody wants—an attribute of good character that makes us worthy of respect. From the Bible to fairy tales; ancient myths to Hollywood movies, our culture is rich with exemplary tales of bravery and self-sacrifice for the greater good. From the cowardly lion in The Wizard of Oz who finds the courage to face the witch, to David battling Goliath in the Bible, to Star Wars and Harry Potte r, children are raised on a diet of heroic and inspirational tales.

Yet courage is not just physical bravery. History books tell colorful tales of social activists, such as Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, who chose to speak out against injustice at great personal risk. Entrepreneurs such as Steve Jobs and Walt Disney, who took financial risks to follow their dreams and innovate, are like modern-day knights, exemplifying the rewards and public accolades that courage can bring.

There are different types of courage, ranging from physical strength and endurance to mental stamina and innovation . The below quotes demonstrate six different ways in which we define courage. Which are most relevant to you? In the last section, I present an exercise to help you define and harness your own courage.

1. Feeling Fear Yet Choosing to Act

“Bran thought about it. 'Can a man still be brave if he's afraid?' 'That is the only time a man can be brave,' his father told him.” —George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones

" Fear and courage are brothers." —Proverb

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." —Nelson Mandela

"There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid." —L.Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

"Being terrified but going ahead and doing what must be done—that's courage. The one who feels no fear is a fool, and the one who lets fear rule him is a coward." —Piers Anthony

"Courage is about doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared. Have the courage to act instead of react." —Oliver Wendell Holmes

2. Following Your Heart

“Passion is what drives us crazy, what makes us do extraordinary things, to discover, to challenge ourselves. Passion is and should always be the heart of courage.” —Midori Komatsu

"And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition . They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” —Steve Jobs, Stanford commencement speech, June 2005

"To dare is to lose one’s footing momentarily. To not dare is to lose oneself."
 —Soren Kierkegaard

“It takes courage...to endure the sharp pains of self discovery rather than choose to take the dull pain of unconsciousness that would last the rest of our lives.” —Marianne Williamson, "Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of 'A Course in Miracles'"

3. Persevering in the Face of Adversity

"When we are afraid, we ought not to occupy ourselves with endeavoring to prove that there is no danger, but in strengthening ourselves to go on in spite of the danger." —Mark Rutherford

"A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer." —Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them." —Orison Swett Marden (1850-1924)

"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says, 'I'll try again tomorrow.'" —Mary Anne Radmacher

“'Go back?' he thought. 'No good at all! Go sideways? Impossible! Go forward? Only thing to do! On we go!' So up he got, and trotted along with his little sword held in front of him and one hand feeling the wall, and his heart all of a patter and a pitter.” —J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

“It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.” —Mark Twain

4. Standing Up for What Is Right

"Sometimes standing against evil is more important than defeating it. The greatest heroes stand because it is right to do so, not because they believe they will walk away with their lives. Such selfless courage is a victory in itself." —N.D. Wilson, Dandelion Fire

"Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes." —Maggie Kuhn, social activist

"From caring comes courage." —Lao Tzu

" Anger is the prelude to courage." —Eric Hoffer

5. Expanding Your Horizons; Letting Go of the Familiar

"Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore." —Lord Chesterfield

“This world demands the qualities of youth; not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of the imagination , a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the life of ease.” —Robert F. Kennedy

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." —Anais Nin

6. Facing Suffering With Dignity or Faith

“There is no need to be ashamed of tears, for tears bear witness that a man has the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer.” —Viktor Frankl

"The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances." —Aristotle

"Until the day of his death, no man can be sure of his courage." —Jean Anoulh

"A man of courage is also full of faith." —Marcus Tullius Cicero

Courage-Building Exercise

For this exercise, you will need a notebook and pen, as well as a quiet, uninterrupted space in which you can reflect. Beginning with the first definition of courage—"feeling afraid yet choosing to act"—answer the following questions:

Think of a situation as an adult when you felt afraid, yet chose to face your fear.

• What did you observe, think, and feel at the time? (e.g., "I saw the rollercoaster and felt butterflies in my stomach")
• What did you or the people around you say, think, and do to help you face your fear? (e.g., "I told myself that if little kids could go on it, so could I")
• At what point did your fear start to go down? How did you feel afterwards?
• Now, think back on a situation in childhood in which you faced your fear. How was it the same or different than the first situation?
• Finally, think of a situation you are currently facing that creates fear or anxiety . What are you most afraid of? (e.g., being fired if I ask my boss for a raise)
• Now, is there a way to apply the same skills you used in the two earlier situations to be more courageous in this situation? Remind yourself that you have these skills and have used them successfully in the past. What mental or environmental barriers stand in the way of using these skills? How can you cope with or get rid of these barriers?

Repeat this exercise over the course of a week, using each definition of courage above. On Day 7, come up with your own definition of courage that is most meaningful to you and repeat the whole exercise using this definition.

Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D. , is a licensed clinical psychologist and life coach practicing internationally via distance technologies. She is a former professor, national speaker, and the author of The Stress Proof Brain .

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How to Find and Practice Courage

• Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries

It’s a behavior you can learn.

Leadership expert, coach, and psychologist Manfred Kets de Vries explains that what makes a person courageous is a combination of genetic predisposition, acquired psychological characteristics, social norms, and the context of the decision requiring courage. He argues that courageous behavior, in which the person chooses a course of action that involves accepting risk in order to protect or benefit others, is learnable and offers a number of techniques that he has found effective in helping people find their courage.

In these difficult times, we’ve made a number of our coronavirus articles free for all readers. To get all of HBR’s content delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Daily Alert newsletter.

One of my former students, the CEO of a large, diversified industrial company recently sent me an email to say that he believed “the pandemic was the moment to show the people in the company that management really cared.”

• MV Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries is a management scholar, a psychoanalyst, and an executive coach. He is the Distinguished Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Organizational Change at INSEAD.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Courage — Understanding the Meaning of Courage and Its Importance

Understanding The Meaning of Courage and Its Importance

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Published: Mar 17, 2023

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32 Writing Prompts About Courage and Bravery

Stories about courage and trusting your gut are the best! You see them everywhere – in old- school myths , modern movies , you name it.

These stories remind us how to overcome tough stuff, be brave, and how awesome that feels!

So, if you’re into writing, I’ve got some cool prompts for you to play with.

Whether you want ideas for a whole novel, a short story , or just want to get your thoughts down, these questions will help you explore courage and bravery in your own way.

Dive in and let’s get creative !

Writing Prompts About Courage and Bravery

• Reflection on Personal Trials : Consider an event in your life that tested your courage like never before. It could be a crisis, a significant life change , or an unexpected challenge. How did you react to it? Did it alter your perception of bravery? Explore your thoughts and feelings about this moment in your life, focusing on how it forced you to confront and demonstrate your bravery. Write a narrative recounting this event, examining your emotions , reactions, and the aftermath.
• Bravery Through Others’ Eyes : We often perceive ourselves differently from how others perceive us. Think about an incident when someone told you that you were brave, but you didn’t feel brave at the time. Why did they think you were courageous, and why did you disagree? What did this incident teach you about the multiple dimensions of courage? Write a reflective piece exploring this incident and its impact on your understanding of bravery.
• Courage in Everyday Life : Bravery doesn’t always involve grand gestures or life-and- death situations; sometimes, it’s the little things that count. Think of a day-to-day situation where you had to show courage — it could be as simple as speaking up for yourself or someone else, confronting a fear , or taking on a new responsibility . Write a short story about this situation, exploring how it called on your courage and how it changed you.
• Inspiration of Bravery : Everyone has someone they admire for their bravery, whether it’s a real person or a fictional character . Reflect on why you admire this person’s courage and how it influences your own behavior. Are there any aspects of their courage you aspire to emulate? Write an essay analyzing the nature of their courage and how it has inspired you.
• Fear Versus Courage : Fear is a natural part of being human, and true courage often involves confronting and overcoming our fears. Reflect on a fear that you’ve had to face head-on. How did you muster the courage to do so? What were the outcomes, and how did this experience shape your perception of bravery? Write a personal essay on this fear, your process of overcoming it, and its impact on your concept of bravery.
• The Cost of Courage : Bravery can sometimes come at a price. There could be times when standing up for what you believe in led to loss or difficulty. Reflect on such a time and how you dealt with the consequences. Did it make you question your actions, or did it strengthen your resolve? Write a narrative detailing this experience and its effect on your understanding of courage.
• Unexpected Acts of Courage : There are moments when we surprise ourselves by acting bravely in unexpected circumstances. Recall such a moment when your actions surprised you. What led you to act courageously, and what was the outcome? How did this incident affect your understanding of your own courage? Write a reflective piece describing this event and its impact on your self-perception.
• Bravery in Leading : Being a leader often requires courage, as it involves making difficult decisions, facing criticism, and setting an example for others. Reflect on a time when you had to step up and lead, whether in a small group or a larger community . How did you show bravery in this role ? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them? Write an account of your leadership experience, focusing on the role courage played in it.
• Silent Bravery : There are moments of quiet courage that often go unnoticed – standing up to a personal bias, reaching out to someone despite past misunderstandings, or persisting in the face of consistent failure . Reflect on a moment of such silent bravery in your life. How did it transform you, and what did it teach you about the nuances of courage? Write a personal narrative focusing on this silent act of bravery and its impact on your personal growth .
• Unconventional Acts of Courage : Society has defined sets of expectations and norms. Breaking away from these norms and being true to yourself often requires a lot of courage. Think about an instance when you displayed bravery by defying societal expectations to stay true to your convictions. Write a reflective piece on this incident, exploring your struggle, triumph, and lessons learned.
• Bravery in Vulnerability : Showing vulnerability, opening up about our feelings, and seeking help can be some of the bravest acts. Reflect on a time when you had to open up about something deeply personal and how it demanded courage from you. How did it affect your relationships and your perception of strength and courage? Write a memoir -style piece about this event and its lasting effects on you.
• Cultivating Courage : Bravery isn’t an inborn trait; it can be cultivated over time. Reflect on your journey of cultivating courage. How did you recognize the need for it? What actions did you take, and how did you overcome setbacks? What were some significant milestones along this journey? Write an essay detailing your journey of cultivating courage, emphasizing the growth process.
• Empathy and Courage : Empathy often requires courage as it involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which can sometimes be painful or uncomfortable. Reflect on a time when your empathy for someone else’s situation led you to act courageously. Write a narrative exploring how empathy propelled you into an act of courage and how this event influenced your perception of bravery.
• Bravery in Forgiveness : It requires immense courage to forgive, especially when the hurt is deep . Reflect on an experience where you demonstrated courage by choosing to forgive. How difficult was it to take this step? How did this act of bravery affect you and the other person involved? Write an introspective piece examining this act of forgiveness and its impact on your understanding of courage.
• Sacrificial Courage : There are moments when we display bravery by making sacrifices for the benefit of others. Recall an instance when you had to make a significant sacrifice that required courage. What were the consequences, and how did they affect your outlook on bravery? Write a narrative detailing this sacrificial act and its influence on your perception of bravery.
• Overcoming Physical Limitations : Often, we find courage within ourselves when dealing with physical limitations or illnesses. Reflect on a time when you or someone close to you showed courage in the face of physical adversity . How did this situation highlight the essence of bravery for you? Write a personal essay on this experience, focusing on how it shaped your view of courage.

Story Ideas About Courage and Bravery

• A small-town firefighter battling a citywide fire: Imagine a small town where everyone knows everyone else, and a dangerous fire breaks out, threatening to consume it all. Your main character is a local firefighter who is under-equipped but brimming with courage. The story should focus on their determination and the risks they take, exposing their bravery under intense circumstances. Write about how they rise to this daunting challenge, leveraging their deep connection with the community and their extraordinary courage.
• Stand against a corrupt regime: Picture a world where your protagonist lives under a tyrannical government. Despite the risks associated with dissent, they decide to take a stand against the regime. Their actions start small but gradually gain momentum, leading to unforeseen consequences. Delve into the story of their bravery, illustrating the courage it takes to stand against systemic corruption.
• An encounter with a wild animal : Your character is an average person who stumbles upon a potentially dangerous wild animal while hiking in a remote area. With no one else around to help, they must rely on their courage to manage the situation. Write a thrilling account of how their bravery plays a pivotal role in their survival .
• Facing terminal illness: Your protagonist is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Instead of letting the diagnosis rule their remaining days, they decide to face it with courage, living life to the fullest. Tell their heart-wrenching tale of bravery, depicting how they inspire others around them with their optimistic outlook and courageous spirit .
• The reluctant hero : Your main character is an everyday person who is unwillingly thrust into a crisis situation, such as a hostage situation, natural disaster , or act of terrorism. They must summon their courage and step out of their comfort zone to navigate this life-threatening situation. Craft a compelling narrative that explores their journey from reluctance to bravery.
• Revealing a personal truth: The protagonist holds a secret related to their identity , such as their sexual orientation or a hidden past, which, if revealed, could ostracize them from their conservative community. They decide to come out with the truth, despite the societal backlash. Write about their brave journey of self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically.
• An unexpected hero: Imagine a timid, introverted character who everyone overlooks. However, when a crisis arises, they surprise everyone by demonstrating unprecedented courage. Spin a tale that unfolds their transformation from an underdog to a hero, highlighting their journey of courage and self-discovery .
• Protecting a loved one at all costs: Your character is a pacifist who abhors violence . But when a loved one is in danger, they are forced to step into a violent confrontation to save them. Narrate this intense story of love-induced bravery, where the character must face their fears and take action they would never have imagined.
• Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking: Your protagonist suffers from a severe fear of public speaking, yet finds themselves having to deliver a speech at an important event. The story should focus on the mental and emotional preparation leading up to the event. Explore their journey of summoning courage to overcome their fear and bravely face the audience.
• Choosing a Difficult Career Path: Your character is passionate about a career path that is notoriously difficult and fraught with failure. Despite the odds, they choose to pursue it, navigating obstacles with relentless determination and courage. Write about their courageous choice and how their unwavering bravery propels them towards their dream .
• A Nurse During a Pandemic: Imagine your protagonist as a nurse working in a hospital during a global pandemic. Faced with uncertainty and danger, they show immense courage in tending to the sick. Narrate the stories of their brave acts in the face of life-threatening risk, painting a vivid picture of their everyday courage.
• Championing Environmental Conservation: The protagonist is an environmental activist in a region where ecological concerns are sidelined by economic interests. Despite threats and backlash, they dare to stand up for the environment. Tell their story, showcasing their courage to fight against powerful adversaries for the cause they believe in.
• The Unlikely Athlete: Your character has a physical disability , yet they have the courage to train and compete as an athlete. Craft an inspiring narrative highlighting their bravery and determination to overcome their physical limitations and societal stereotypes.
• Refugee ’s Journey to Safety: Your protagonist is a refugee forced to flee their home due to conflict or persecution. Their journey to safety is fraught with danger, but they bravely push forward, holding onto hope . Depict their harrowing journey, emphasizing their bravery in the face of unimaginable adversity.
• Teacher in a Struggling School District: Your main character is a teacher in an underfunded and underperforming school. Despite the challenges, they take innovative measures to ensure their students get quality education . Detail their story of courageous dedication to their students and their brave fight against the systemic challenges of their environment.
• Against Bullying : The protagonist is a high-school student witnessing daily bullying incidents in their school. Instead of staying silent, they decide to stand up against the bullies, despite the fear of becoming a target. Write about their acts of courage, demonstrating how their bravery helps to change the bullying culture in their school.

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100, 150, 200, 250 & 300 Words Paragraph & Essay About Courage

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A Paragraph about Courage in 100 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality found in brave individuals. It is the ability to face fear, challenges, and hardships with determination. Courageous people do not let their fears stop them from taking risks and standing up for what is right. They show bravery by speaking up against injustice, helping others in need, and trying new things, even when they are scared. Courage can be seen in everyday acts of kindness, like standing up to a bully or trying something new, like riding a bike for the first time. It takes courage to face challenges and overcome them. Having courage is like having superpowers that make us stronger and more confident.

A Paragraph about Courage in 150 Word

Courage is a quality that shows strength and bravery in difficult or challenging situations. It takes a lot of courage to face our fears and overcome them. For example, imagine a person who is afraid of heights. They might feel scared and nervous when going up a tall building or riding a roller coaster. However, if they are able to push past their fears and take a step forward, that shows great courage. Courage can also be seen in everyday acts of kindness and standing up for what is right. For instance, if a student sees someone being bullied and decides to speak up and defend them, they are showing immense courage. Courage is not about being fearless, but rather about facing our fears and not letting them control us. It is a quality that inspires others and makes the world a better place.

A Paragraph about Courage in 200 Word

Courage is a powerful virtue that allows people to face their fears and overcome challenges. It is not just about being brave, but also about pushing ourselves to do what is right, even when it is difficult. When we think of courage, we might imagine a superhero saving the day or a firefighter rescuing someone from a burning building. But courage can also be seen in everyday acts of bravery. It takes courage to stand up for a friend who is being bullied or to try something new even if we are afraid of failing. Courage comes from deep within, and it helps us grow and learn. It is not something that can easily be seen, but its effects can be felt by those around us. Having courage allows us to face challenges head-on, to persist when things get tough, and to believe in ourselves. So, let us be courageous and face our fears, for it is through this bravery that we can achieve great things in life.

A Paragraph about Courage in 250 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality that resides within each and every one of us. It is the ability to face our fears, stand up for what we believe in, and take action, even when we are scared. Courage is like a superhero power that helps us overcome challenges and obstacles in our lives. People who have courage are not afraid to try new things or take risks. They believe in themselves and their abilities, which gives them the strength to face difficult situations with confidence.

Courage can be seen in everyday life. It takes courage to stand up to a bully, to speak out when something is not right, or to take a leap of faith and try something new. Courageous people are not afraid of failure, because they know that even if they do fail, they have learned valuable lessons along the way.

Courage is also about being kind and compassionate to others. It takes courage to be a good friend, to help someone in need, or to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. By showing kindness and compassion, we inspire others to be courageous too.

In conclusion, courage is a special quality that makes us strong and resilient. It helps us face our fears, take risks, and be kind to others. Having courage allows us to become better versions of ourselves and make a positive impact in the world. So let’s embrace our courage and face the challenges that come our way with bravery and determination.

A Paragraph about Courage in 300 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality that can be found in many different people. It is the ability to face fears and overcome challenges, even when it is difficult or scary. Courage can come in many forms, and it is not limited to just superheroes or soldiers. In fact, everyday people demonstrate courage in their everyday lives.

Imagine a little girl who is afraid of riding a bicycle for the first time. She knows it will be challenging, and she might fall. However, she gathers her courage, takes a deep breath, and gets on the bike. She pedals slowly at first, but as she gains confidence, her speed increases. With each push of the pedal, she overcomes her fear and discovers the joy of riding a bicycle. This girl demonstrates courage by facing her fears and not letting them hold her back.

Another example of courage can be seen in a student who is nervous about speaking in front of the entire class. He knows that all eyes will be on him and that he might stumble over his words. Despite his fear, he stands tall in front of his classmates and begins his presentation. He speaks with a strong voice and a confident tone, captivating his audience. This student shows courage by pushing past his fears and speaking up.

Courage is not about being fearless or never feeling afraid. It is about acknowledging one’s fears and still choosing to move forward. It is about taking risks, even when it is uncomfortable or uncertain. With courage, we can face challenges, overcome obstacles, and grow as individuals. So let us remember that courage is not just for superheroes, but for each and every one of us.

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Teenagers on the Greatest Gifts Their Parents Have Given Them

We invited students to tell us about the most meaningful values and life lessons they have learned from the adults in their lives.

By The Learning Network

What’s the greatest gift your parents have given you?

That’s the question we posed to students inspired by an Opinion essay from Esau McCaulley . “Parenting is always an exercise in hope,” he writes, “a gift given to a future we cannot see to the end. At some point, if God is merciful, our children will continue forward without us, left with the memory of love shared and received.”

We invited teenagers to share with us the gifts, lessons and “memories of love” they have received from their parents. Below, read a selection of their responses, which show us how, even when it may seem like it, a parent’s sacrifices, advice and examples do not go unnoticed.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the conversation on our writing prompts this week, including students from Cumberland Polytechnic High School in Fayetteville, N.C. ; Glenbard West High School in Glen Ellyn, Ill. ; and Julia Reynolds Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School in Philadelphia .

Please note: Student comments have been lightly edited for length, but otherwise appear as they were originally submitted.

The value of hard work

Ever since I was a little kid, my parents have always instilled the idea that you can try and do anything in life. They have told me that I might fail a bunch of the things that I try, and that’s okay. However, if you were to try to do something, you have to see it all the way through. You can fail at something if it’s not your expertise, or if you’re not good at it, but you can’t fail at something because you quit or you did not try. This lesson is very applicable to various aspects of my life. Whether it be the extracurriculars that I’ve tried and kept going to this day because of this lesson, or my school academics where I have actively struggled in certain subjects and through this mentality have seen it through and have pulled better marks than I thought I would, or any other aspects of life.

— Jack, Miami Country Day School

Out of all the lessons my parents have taught me over my 13 years of living, the one that they most often bring up and recite is “nothing worth having, comes without hard work.” This saying has now come to define much of my life. I wouldn’t be half the person I am if it weren’t for my parents teaching me the values of hard work. As of now I would consider myself to be moderately athletic, but before rather recently, I was quite the opposite. I couldn’t score a soccer goal from ten feet away, couldn’t reach the basket when I was shooting from the foul line, and couldn’t throw a baseball half the distance between 1st and 2nd base. Originally none of this ever mattered to me. I would just shrug off these inabilities to lack of natural talent and that if I were to apply myself to any of the sports, nothing would change. Little did I know this couldn’t be further from the truth. As soon as I got the courage to try and better myself, I was easily able to surpass many of my peers in the sports that I would play, not because I was actually better than them but because I would always try twice as hard as all of them. This quality would end up translating into many other parts of my life, creating the person I am today.

— Charles, J.R. Masterman School

The courage to speak my mind

The greatest gift I have received from my mother is my outspokenness. If there is something I disagree with, I will be the first to let others know how I feel. Since I was a young girl my mother has consistently reminded me to always speak out for myself. There were times where I was bullied as a kid and pushed around by others. However, my mother’s encouragement allowed me to gain the confidence to say something. My mother is my biggest supporter, and though we do not always see eye to eye, I know she will always have my side.

— Kristen, Cumberland Polytechnic High School

The ability to pursue my dreams

The greatest gift that my parents have given me was the ability to chase after every dream I’ve had. While growing up I’ve had so many different interests, it is hard to count. I would share these things with my parents and they would help me the most they could to pursue them. I’ve done soccer, gymnastics, art, and I am about to start acting and guitar lessons. Because of my parents, I have been able to explore and find out who I am and my interests. I know in the future I will have many more opportunities to do the things I love.

— Violet, Masterman School, Philadelphia, PA

The greatest gift my parents have given me is the opportunity to pursue whatever I choose. Ever since I was young, I had varying interests. When I chose to pursue something (sports, art), they supported it and tried to help me with what they wanted. For example, after being very interested in sports, they supported it. Joyful, I picked up the tennis racquet for the first time after watching a grueling match on TV. I believe that this stands out among many different things because always trying out different things will continue to bring benefits to you forever.

— Henry, Michigan

As a kid I was always so excited to receive gifts, and the idea of receiving a gift uplifted my spirit to the highest. A gift I received from my parents during my 9th birthday was a sketchbook, and little did I know from this gift would arise a new persona in me. I always knew I had some creative talent but never knew the true extent of it till I received this gift. This sketchbook itself created a new part of my identity: an artist. I learned I had a capability to draw, although not learned over night, the practices and persistent drawings in my sketchbook created me to the artists I am today. I thank my parents for allowing me to acknowledge this gift I had, which makes their present so much more than just a gift: they created a new part of my identity.

— Hadassah, Glenbard West High School

My confidence and independence

The greatest gift my parents have given me is independence. Among the many values and life lessons they have bestowed upon me, the ability to be self-reliant and confident in my own abilities stands out. They encouraged me to take responsibility for my actions from a young age and fostered an environment that allowed me to learn and grow independently. My father played a significant role in instilling independence in me. He taught me practical skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and self-sufficiency. Whether it was calling the hotel phone to ask for a toothbrush during our travels, building my own IKEA furniture, cooking for guests, or even allowing me to build my own wardrobe, my father empowered me to take charge of various aspects of my life. By allowing me to tackle challenges on my own and providing guidance when needed, my parents helped me develop a sense of confidence in my abilities. They taught me to trust myself and believe that I have the capability to overcome obstacles. This gift of independence has been invaluable in preparing me for the transition to adulthood and has given me the courage to embrace new experiences and responsibilities.

— Tanirika, New Jersey

The opportunity for a better life

My parents were born and raised in Algeria for the first 24 or so years of their lives. Everything they knew, their family, friends, and home, was there. When I was born, they had to make a sacrifice. It was either we stayed there, not poor but not having enough to give me the “lavish life” they wanted me to have, or we left. To the land of opportunity, the U.S. Think about it, having to travel 5,562 miles away from all you loved, just for a child. I could never be more grateful for my parents. Without argument, no doubts in their minds, they decided that they would automatically leave Algeria to move for me. Truly, they are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I’d never be able to thank them for leaving their family to give me a better life. My parents didn’t give me a trip to Nashville, or a soccer game. They have given me love, support, and a life that they never got to have.

— LIna, J.R Masterman Philadelphia Pa

What is the greatest gift my parents have given me? If I had to think long and hard, I would say giving me an opportunity to live in a well-developed country. My parents didn’t have much in my home country because of the low-paying jobs. Although we had all we needed, my parents decided it wasn’t good for us to experience life in a poor country. As a result of this, they decided it was best for us to move to the United States. They spent long, hard-working days saving money for a one-way ticket to America. They did this for my brother and me so that we could live our best lives.

— Mario, Masterman School, Philadelphia, PA

The greatest gift I’ve ever received from my parents was themselves. The appreciation they deserve is unparalleled when you see “families” with absent adults. My mom — sacrificing her life — escaped her home country after a war, risking her life, to have better opportunities. My parents were foreigners and had to learn everything new in America. Despite their struggles, never once have I been forgotten or neglected. While not receiving tickets to a soccer game, I am still spoiled, cared for, and loved for. I have been their greatest gift, and they are my favorite gift.

— Justin, Masterman School, Philadelphia, PA

The greatest gift my mother has given me is the gift of religion. I understand this doesn’t really make sense, but let me explain. It is because of my mother that I go to church and am so involved in the service ministry via our worship teams. This past week has been campaign week for our SGA, and I am running for Vice President. This week started off with me being completely overwhelmed, stressed, and just angry. I went as far as to contemplate dropping out because of some events that occurred during this time. But, through my devotional time and faith, I just feel lighter knowing that no matter how this week ends up, I know there was a plan behind it and there is something in store for me. My mother was the one who encouraged me to take a deep breath and keep pushing through because He would find a way for His will to be done. Without my mother taking me to church when I was younger, I don’t know where I’d be right now, but I sure am glad she did.

— Amelia, CPHS

A positive attitude

The greatest gift my parents gave me was being optimistic. Throughout my life when things aren’t going well, my parents have always taught me to keep an optimistic attitude no matter what. When I was younger I used to have a really bad temper and attitude, I would always get suspended from school and have to go to work with my parents and they would always tell me I am the only one stopping myself from doing things because of my attitude. I am glad they told me this because having a bad attitude vs having a good attitude can change your life and it certainly has changed mine. I don’t let little mishaps in my day bother me anymore and rather than being all sad about it, I think about it for a minute and keep moving. This gift they gave me translates to everything in my life from basketball and school to life at home and friendships.

— Darius, North Carolina

The greatest gift my parents have given me is showing that gratefulness is important. I may not have as much as others but my parents have taught me to always be grateful for everything I have and I think that’s the most important and valuable lesson my parents taught me. I think this is quite important because some people may want what others have but not look back at everything they already have.

— Kristina, Masterman School, Philadelphia, PA

I believe that the greatest gift my parents have given me is to appreciate the people around me. We had to move a few times so when I would finally get comfortable or used to being in a certain place, we moved. I would be sad and it felt like there was no point in even trying to make friends or talk to other people. Then my parents taught me to appreciate the people and enjoy the moment that we create with people even though it may be for a short time. Even though I have lost some good friends because of the long distance, I do enjoy looking back at the fun we had. It also allowed me to be more open and extroverted instead of closing myself off and being so shy around other people.

— Jaelyn, CPHS

Their love and care

I’ve been in and out of the hospital since I was as young as a year old (perhaps even less). My parents had two older daughters to care for, yet they still provided me with the right doctors who helped me get the assistance I needed … My last surgery was in June 2022. And I know that my parents have been there for every step of the way. I remember a few years back, I had surgery on both of my eyes. To recover, I needed patches on both of my eyes, which left me without vision. My mother led me throughout the house and made sure I ate properly. I remember on my last surgery, while still in the hospital, I bawled my eyes out while my mother pat my back and handed me a mango popsicle. I may not remember these little details in a few decades, but they mean a lot to me in the moment, and that’s what matters.

— Arielly O-L, Julia R. Masterman, Philadelphia, PA

My resilience

The greatest gift my parents have given me is resilience. It stands out because despite a challenging childhood, resilience has been my lifeline, helping me overcome adversity and find strength within myself.

Mr. McCaulley’s emphasis on joy strikes a chord with me. While my childhood may have lacked joy at times, I recognize its importance in fostering resilience and hope. I’ve found moments of joy in small victories, supportive relationships, and personal accomplishments.

If I become a parent, I’d want to break the cycle of hardship and provide my children with a nurturing environment filled with love, empathy, and opportunities for joy. I’d strive to instill in them resilience, knowing firsthand its power to overcome adversity.

My parents didn’t shield me from the realities of suffering and injustice; rather, they exposed me to them in a way that shaped my worldview and fueled my determination to create a better future. While it was difficult, it also cultivated empathy and a sense of responsibility toward others.

My parents may not fully grasp the impact of their actions, but I’ll make sure to acknowledge the moments of joy and strength they inadvertently provided. (Gospel truth: Resilience transcends hardship.)

— Brianna (Bri), Glenbard West High School

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