COURAGE PART 1

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In this session, participants will explore the concept of courage, based on an essay describing an act of courage.

Category

  • Character
  • Positive Self-concept

Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Explain the importance of courage as a personal characteristic.

Supplies

  • Late-Blooming Courage activity sheet—make a copy for each participant
  • Pen or pencil for each participant

Advisor Note

Text in italics should be read aloud to participants. As you engage your post in activities each week, please include comments, discussions, and feedback to the group relating to Character, Leadership, and Ethics. These are important attributes that make a difference in the success of youth in the workplace and in life.

Activity 1

DEVELOPING COURAGE

Pass out copies of Late-Blooming Courage to participants.

 

Have them read Late-Blooming Courage. After participants finish reading the essay, use the reflection questions below to make the point that courage is an essential part of success in life and in acquiring good habits.

Advisor Note

Some sample questions are below. They are designed to help the participants apply what they have learned to their own interests. You are welcome to use these questions or develop your own questions that relate to your post or specific focus area.

Reflection

Focusing Questions

  • Why did people spend so much time simply watching as others drowned?
  • Is it correct to call Lenny a hero? Why or why not?

Analysis Questions

  • How is courage a trait of an effective leader?
  • Was Lenny, the father of two small children, right to risk his life to save the woman?
  • What are some ways students can demonstrate, and thus practice, the habit of courage?
  • What are some everyday ways that students show their lack of courage?
  • How might you use this in your potential career?

Generalization Questions

  • What is the difference between being very careful and being a coward?
  • What is the difference between being very courageous and being recklessly foolhardy?
  • How can courage be an important part of acquiring new habits?
  • How might you use this in life or in college?
  • Why is this important?