Are You Passing the Test?

June: On Conflict and CourageJune 5Testing our courage at its highest point, isn’t easy. Often, we fail the test. Yet, there’s no need to get down on yourself. Practicing the virtues can go against our instinct for self-preservation. It’s natural to keep your head down rather than speak up and risk becoming the next target. It’s natural to act virtuously when it’s easy and everyone else is doing it—and to falter when it becomes truly difficult or really matters.The first step in passing such tests of courage is to be aware that you are human and that this is difficult—and to know that you will fail. But as always, you must get up, learn from the past, and move forward to do better next time. Until you show your wisdom, honesty, patience, gratitude, and mercy even when—especially when—it’s risky.Reflection title: Are You Passing the Test?Creative inspiration: C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape LettersReflection Question: Am I practicing the virtues even when it’s risky? Am I passing or failing the tests life throws at me—and how can I work to do better?