Courage - A Poem

Courage is not the absence of fear,

But the strength to face it year after year.

It’s a fire that burns bright and strong,

When everything else feels so wrong.

Courage is a burning within the soul,

Shining a light, as we start to feel whole.

It’s the voice that rises above the crowd,

The heart that beats, strong and proud.

Courage is the voice that whispers in our ear,

And the hand that wipes away our fear.

It's the faith that keeps us going,

When the world around feels like it’s slowing.

Courage is the hope that lights our way,

The glimmer that says it will be okay.

It will keep us growing, no matter the cost,

And tells us all will never be lost.

Courage is the armor that we wear,

In a world that doesn't always care.

It's the bright light that shines from within,

And the push that helps us begin.

For when we let courage guide our way,

And trust in ourselves day by day,

Anything is possible, every goal,

And it will live inside our heart and soul.

By Janet Bentley, 2023