Note: This reflection is offered by Guest Contributor, Terry Chapman

Bravery has always been revered in all cultures though they may differ in their form and behaviors. The most obvious bit of bravery would be a mountain climber who takes the telling first step up their “Everest”. Contrast that with the brave action of a fireman who races into a burning building to save a person’s life. The soldier heading bravely into combat for the first time is another. How about the person facing a severe illness who stays positive and works toward healing with or without a care giver?

Still another less obvious demonstration of bravery is when someone faces a terminal possibility from cancer or other devastating form of disease.  I have a close friend who recently suffered a stroke which caused a clot in his brain. I have encouraged and visited him many times in the four months since the stroke and he has never complained, but has steadfastly faced his condition; works very hard in PT; speaks in a positive manner to all, and receives visitors every day with his usual grace! 

An altogether different kind of bravery takes place when someone loses a child and bravely greets family members and friends at the service at such a heart-rending time. I was recently privileged to attend that service and be present with those dear church friends. I will never forget how nobly they celebrated their son’s life!

 All these different acts display bravery of a high order. Who among us can ignore such splendid human nobility?  Who among us will not at some time need their loving care?  Caregivers and receivers of care, for physical or mental or spiritual suffering and some of our best citizens set the bar high for all of us as do family members. We benefit from their faithful, loving care in health facilities, and other community organizations such as churches, YMCA’s, and in homes throughout America and our world.

The next time someone you know experiences a severe health event, reach out to them by showing you care, often with just your presence at their side on a short visit. Bring them a meal, a book, a music CD, or other craft you can fashion. But your true gift to them will be yourself: your sharing of your time in the midst of their challenge, heartbreak, or simply severe boredom.  None of us need be alone; we are all integral parts of the eternal chain of humankind now and forever linked in all of our journeys—both pleasant and challenging–on planet Earth!

Terry Chapman