Michelangelo’s David depicts the young man at the point of decision as he prepares to confront the giant Goliath. The moment of courage which the artist chose to memorialize was not the actual confrontation when David’s life was on the line, but the moment of true courage when he freely chose to take a monumental risk.
What is the greatest risk that you have chosen of your own free will?
You are probably familiar with the idea that, given enough time, water can wear away even solid rock. But it is also true that wonderful structures of stalactites and stalagmites form over the ages because dripping water actually builds up the rock by bringing minerals in drop by drop. Sometimes the things we build come into being so slowly that we can only see what we have done in retrospect.
What have you created bit by bit over a long period of time?
Purim is a silly, festive, rambunctious holiday centered on a story full of dire situations, including death and potential genocide. Sometimes the best way to find courage in the face of the horrors of the world is to look for and celebrate the absurd, even if it means eating a cookie in the shape of the villain’s hat.
How have silliness and humor helped you to face hardship?
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ―Lao Tzu
Who do you love with a depth that gives you greater courage?
Bright orange is always a bold statement, especially when it covers an entire hillside. Poppies are not concerned whether they match with the rest of the scene. They just shine.
When do you have the courage to stand out in a crowd?
