“Courage is not the towering oak
that sees storms come and go;
it is the fragile blossom
that opens in the snow”
-Alice Mackenzie Swaim, poet
Storms often blow into our lives, whether we are expecting them or not, usually appearing at the most inopportune moments. Whether physical, emotional or psychological, weathering a storm requires strength of character, which is often evidenced through joy and compassion rather than sorrow or self-pity.
To smile in the midst of life’s stormy struggles can be a truer indicator of courage than medals earned or honors received.
– Connie Popp
Dr. Connie Popp is a board member for The Center for Life Transitions as well as an active facilitator for the Center’s Life-SHIFT and Job Search Courage programs. She is also the Director of Campus Ministry at Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Read more.