Defining Courage

Courage.

Webster's Definition - The ability to do something that frightens one ; strength in face of pain or grief.

On Thursday October 1st, 2015, a gunman entered a class at Oregon's Umpqua Community College and killed ten people for their beliefs. Seven other people were injured, three survivors, and the gunman then killed himself. Imagine the fear that took place in their hearts. Watching these video's and hearing stories of how fear consumed their thoughts, making them think they would be next is horrific. What do you do at a time like this?

This situation is one that as friends, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers hope that no one they love and care for have to go through this. The fact that only 3 survived, and 10 died for their same religion and beliefs. I, as a christian, firm believer and follower in Christ, am heartbroken over what took place at UCC. These survivors, and their friends and family have the true definition of courage. Strength through pain and grief. It took extreme courage to go through and/or survive an event like this. I feel as if courage is not a justified enough word for their actions of standing up for what they believe in, knowing it could get them shot, even killed.  

While watching CNN, I received an email from my local community college announcing that the FBI'a Philadelphia Field Office notified local colleges and universities of social media posting which threatened violence at a Philadelphia-area college or university for today, Monday October 5th.  No specific college was named, but as a warning for the students who go to colleges around the greater Philadelphia-area. My heart then became extremely heavy, wanting to look up more information on what happened at UCC, how their parents reacted, how the survivors are going on with their lives. One story stuck out to me immediately. 

A man named Chris Mints, heroically stood up for those in the classroom trying to save them. He even ran back into the school once he had the chance to leave, to save other students. While doing so, he stood in front of the door and said to the gunman, "You will not get by me. You cannot enter this room." He was shot numerous times afterwards ending up in the hospital for his heroic act. This man had what true courage is. He revealed to me, that no matter the circumstance, go out of your way and try to save everyone you can while you're able to. Tomorrow, you may not have that chance too. Chris Mints has a great soul, and I am honored to write about his courage on Fearless Movement's blog. 

What will you do with this information, in this time of fear? Would you say yes, and stand up for your beliefs? Would you try and go out of your way risking your life, to save others? It's okay to feel that you wouldn't at this moment. Like the saying goes, it truly is easier said then done. Although, every time you face a situation challenging you to stand up for your beliefs, do just that. No matter the fear you may feel during these trials, stand up for your beliefs. No don't only just stand up for yourself, but for those who lost their lives for their beliefs and for those who were severely injured for their courage. 

During this time of tragedy, pray for those who lost loved ones, and stand up for your beliefs in honor of those who can't. I would like to leave you with this quote to remind yourself while you're in fear, "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) 

For prayer and advice please contact us. We would like to help you through this horrific event, and also through the battles you may face. Everything you say will be kept CONFIDENTIAL. Let's bring hope to our country, and most importantly UNITY. 

Contact us at : (856)-558-2385 ; @DROPFEAR_ (Twitter) ; @fearlessmovement (Instagram) ; Ashleykulikowski37@gmail.com (Founder's Email)