Courage is an ability that exists in everyone, but some people are not confident enough to use it.
Ana Fidelia Quirot, a famous Cuban runner, was seriously injured in a fire in 1993. In 1996, she won the silver medal in the 800 metres at the Atlanta Olympic games. No one believed that Ana would be able to compete again after she was so badly hurt. What a brave woman she was!
Courage has also helped me. In primary school, I once got zero in an English dictation exercise. I was shocked and disappointed, but my mother inspired me to keep trying. She said everyone faces failure in life - but those who have the courage to stand up again will triumph.
JAMES MAK
Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School
Thanks for your letter, James. Most people see courage as the ability to confront fear, especially when there is a risk of pain or danger. In some cultures a courageous person is someone who has no fear, in other cultures courage is shown when someone confronts and overcomes their fear.