PEACE: Find the courage within

We have all been met with challenges and disappointment, and the storm sometimes arrives when we least expect it. But we know it’s coming, and the intense anticipation of negative circumstances builds anxiety and fear of the unknown.

I know because it happened to me. And when the fear became overwhelming, I remembered the words of Dr. Maya Angelou: “The greatest attribute you can have in life is courage!” The strength to see something to the end, whatever the outcome.

You need courage to face the bad and respond accordingly. Indeed, action starts the wheel of circumstance — and it turns with a force as strong and certain as gravity. There is no stopping it; but you can stand with your positive convictions and face the conclusion, wherever it lands.

Be not afraid! Your ancestral heritage built a legacy of courage in your DNA — which has built pyramids, freed slaves, and won wars.

As sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, these tests will keep coming our way. We held our collective breath before the grand jury’s decision in the case of Breonna Taylor, who was shot dead in her own home by Louisville Police. And sure enough, we were met with disappointment because the killers aren’t being prosecuted for what many of us view as an ongoing crime against humanity — an unjustified, unaccountable, violent end to another Black woman’s life.

The outrage is developing into anger — which is boiling inside, waiting to pop with directed action. Our response should be a strategic plan to further protect our brothers and sisters from death by unlawful behavior. With no fear, we have to put forward a plan with an intelligent resolution. No more!