We are all told that we should be brave in life. We know, however, that in a world filled with anger and violence, physically, is it not often the most prudent move. What is this concern for bravery that we so often hear about? Well, it, of course, has a very long pedigree.
One of the more interesting examples of acknowledged courage is that of the Victoria Cross. (1) It is awarded for valor — for fearlessness. In many cases, it is awarded posthumously after the soldier is killed. The principal reason for most meritorious action is not for personal glory, however. It is often to save a comrade or rectify an egregious situation. It is to do the right thing. (2)
This is the point, isn’t it? Bravery should not be associated with masculine prowess. It is simply to act at the correct moment. One can think of numerous examples in history wherein people acted at the opportune hour to save a nation or an empire. (3) I find it, nonetheless, difficult to identify with these historical and renowned figures. I am just a modest man and, like the majority of human beings, I am peaceful, loving, and a bit shy. This would place me in the center of mainstream society. I would like to relate my own brush with boldness, which wasn’t audaciousness at all, just action.
Before I was married, during a break from university, I worked in a restaurant with a lady who would eventually become my wife. One night after work, we stopped in a local pub to enjoy a drink with our chef. That particular evening, the meals had been substandard and one of the local patrons had complained as to the level of our establishment. Being a small town, some of the dining room clients were also in the public house. One particular individual, nicknamed “the Mountain,” suddenly appeared at our table and began to berate the cuisinier for his culinary prowess that evening. The cook and he were well on their way to blows when my fiancée spoke up. The Mountain then began to insult the unfortunate girl and, subsequently left the table.
Not in bravery, but in rage, I walked over to his stoop and lightly tapped him on the shoulder. “Ya?” was his query. I pointed out that he had been rude to the young woman. His logical question followed, “What are you going to do about it?” I thought to myself — I am going to lose all my teeth, have my nose broken in several places, and be in the hospital for several months. But, out of my mouth, miraculously, came the words, “Mountain, you are three times the size of me (which was true), but I’m asking you as a gentleman to be more polite!”
Then, I waited for the blow. It never came, much to my surprise. He then touched me on my arm and said, “You’re right, Leon, I apologize.” This massive man in due course came over to our table, expressed regret for his prior actions, and bought us a dram. I never forgot this moment. It personally proved to me that action, not manly bravado, often “carries the day.” From the author, Jon Steele: (4) Being brave is only standing up when you’re afraid.
A closing thought: I recall the words of Osho, to paraphrase: There are no extraordinary heroes nor monstrous cowards, there is only action. History will judge the rest.
To sum up: This week we spoke about being brave.
To be noted: From Benjamin Disraeli (5) — Justice is truth in action.
Just for fun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MPuoOj5TIw&ab_channel=EuroArtsChannel
For reflection:
This week, on your reflective stroll, please ponder what brave action means to your life.
Every day look for something magical and beautiful.
Don’t be a wage slave – critical thinking is great!
Quote: Fear is only created by the self.
Footnotes:
1) The History of the Victoria Cross
2) Most conspicuous bravery: New Brunswick’s Victoria Cross recipients
3) Darkest Hour (2017) – We Shall Fight on the Beaches Scene (10/10) | Movieclips