What does 'Courage' mean to you?
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
Starting Monday 15th June is Refugee Week, and this year’s theme is “Courage”.
We are encouraging everyone in our community to share what courage looks like for them. It could be a family member or friend, a real-life person from the past or present, or even a fictional story or character. Just something that genuinely means something to you and moves you.
Perhaps your words could make a difference for someone or resonate with something they are currently going through.
I also wanted to share my own example.
When I think of courage, I think about the painting: Daniel in the Lions’ Den by Briton Riviere.
Some people think of courage as action, standing in the face of adversity and battling it head on. But when I saw this painting, what resonated with me was something quieter.
One single man stands surrounded by lions, animals known for their strength and danger. Yet although his hands are tied, he is not panicking. His body language is calm and controlled, but his strength speaks loudly. The lions feel his presence, and they bow to it.
Most people would react to a group of lions with fear, panic, or the urge to run or fight. The lions almost represent those primal instincts within us: fear, pressure, chaos, and survival.
But Daniel rises above them. Even though he is physically powerless, he appears mentally and spiritually stronger than the lions themselves. His courage is not loud or aggressive. It comes from self-mastery. He does not betray himself to fear, but remains calm, assertive, and confident in his own strength.
I think that is why this painting stays with me. It made me realise that courage is not always action or force. Sometimes courage looks like stillness, composure, and emotional control.
Maybe I’m not done reflecting on this painting yet, but every time I see it, it strengthens my understanding of courage and reminds me that courage can look different in all people.
I respect that very much.
If there's anything you would like share or talk about, please visit or contact Saint Francis Employability.
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