Rob's blog

What is courage? It takes all kinds of forms for different people. But for most, it is acting with purpose in the face of adversity or danger; while fear is likely present to some degree, the courageous have managed to not be governed by it in choosing what they in that moment of crisis. Sometimes, very ordinary people do very extraordinary things. I would like to share some ideas on courage that came from a soldier, Senior Master Sgt. Scott Martin of the 388th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (published in "The Total Force Viper," April 13, 2006):

He says, "These days when someone mentions courage, my mind ususally flashes to one of the pictures getting e-mailed around of soldiers in Iraq doing something courageous during a firefight. After seeing those images, I then think of the many times in my career when I've been placed in uncomfortable situations and had to make a decision on what I should do.

"When the boss is already upset, do you deliver bad news that they really needed to know about right now, or do you wait until a better time?

"[In a situation] that could be a failure in your organization or with yourself, do you tell it like it is, or do you attempt to make the situation sound better by omitting some of the negative information?

"When one of your subordinates is in trouble, do you stand up for them and make sure their past successes are also considered, or do you remain silent because you want to distance yourself?

". . . When asked for advice, do you go with the crowd, or are you courageous enough to respectfully present and justify a dissenting opinion?

"Are you courageous enough to invite, then withstand, advise and constructive criticism from others?

"Finally, do your day to day actions and attitudes inspire others with courage, spirit or hope?

". . . Courage and the giving of courage to others, through encouragement, are integrated into almost every aspect of leadership. Courage is what allows you to make tough decisions, correct those that don't meet standards, endure hardships, build teamwork and positive attitudes, foster communication and implement the organization's vision. Your own demonstrated courage in these areas is what 'encourages' those around you to do the same."

Master Sgt. Martin was writing about leadership qualities needed in future Air Force officers. I see his comments as being especially applicable to politicians. This kind of courage he speaks of is in short supply in many of our government establishments - not because they lack good people - but because it is much more difficult to swallow the fear that courage requires and face the danger, whatever it may be.

It is my hope that in our moments of crisis, we can all tap into something greater than ourselves and find that courage that brings out the best in the human spirit and brings us closer to our greatest, best potential both as individuals and as humanity.