Courage, learning from the Lion

 I've been reflecting upon the character of the Cowardly lion in the movie The Wizard of Oz & feeling a bit like him.  It seems like he covered up alot of his imperfections with humor.  I do that.  It seems like he cowers at little things & jumps at his own shadow.  I do that too.  But he also had it in him when push comes to shove. I hope I do that  At the end of the movie,  he learns that he had the courage he had been seeking as he journeyed with Dorothy & the other "seeking" characters.  It wasn't the "medal" that gave him courage,  but the love in his heart for the others.  He had it in him the whole time.

Courage, learns the "Cowardly Lion"  is something without which we can have no real self esteem, pride or power, and must ultimately come from within rather than without. He is so guilt-ridden and ashamed of his own fear, anxiety and perceived cowardice that he cannot recognize his innate courage as he bravely accompanies Dorothy and Toto to see the Wizard of Oz. As he is finally wisely counseled by the Wizard, fear, fleeing and inaction is not necessarily to be equated with cowardice. For, as the saying goes, "Discretion can often be the better part of valor."  Sometimes it takes more courage to tactically back away from a confrontation than to mindlessly attack. To stand down rather than further escalate a treacherous crisis. Part of wisdom is knowing when to do which. To be able to consciously pick and choose our battles rather than unconsciously or impulsively reacting. And a major part of wisdom is knowing where true wisdom lies & where to get it.  And that's from God who gives generously (James 1:5)

I choose courage