Bravery

            On September 11, 2001, the firefighters and policemen of New York exhibited chutzpah to the world. David, of the Bible, was said to be a man after God's own heart. He too showed chutzpah when he faced and defeated the giant, Goliath. Bravery, (or chutzpah) is the quality of mind determining action that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, etc. without fear and in a bold, daring, or heroic way. .
             Many individuals, as well as groups have displayed bravery and courage throughout history. One of the most recent and well-known examples were the fearless firefighters and policemen of New York during the events of September 11th. They did not think of their own safety and well being, but rather only thought of those in danger inside the twin towers. The extreme danger that awaited each one of them as they entered was not fully understood, but nonetheless, they were daring in their attempts to save those in peril. Another Biblical example, would be King David of the Old Testament. When he was merely a boy, he volunteered to represent his army in battle. All the other members of the army were scared of the giant named Goliath. David was brave. He fearlessly faced Goliath with boldness and determination, killing the giant. Many may feel brave, but what sets a few above others is overcoming or setting aside his or her fears to accomplish that act in a bold, daring, or heroic way. .
             Next, one might wonder what it is that drives or helps a person to be heroic. Many times, people act on what is called the spur-of-the-moment. This type of courage is almost always instinctive. An example of this would be a soldier in battle who sees a fellow soldier wounded, then risks his own life to help the other soldier in need. Another example of showing bravery is a planned one. A planned act of bravery is developed when a problem is encountered. When a bank is robbed and there are hostages being held, a swat team must plan their invasion and rescue.