ASK: Has anyone ever been walking in a dark hall and felt frightened? The lamp is to remind us that shining a light in the darkness helps us feel safer and braver, and allows us to see things the way they really are. We can turn on the lamp inside us to illuminate the darkness and give us courage. The light of courage in our hearts will help us use our Tools, even in difficult situations. 

“When do we have to show Courage?"

1. When you do something you know is right, but are afraid to do (sometimes for fear of making a mistake or failing).

2. When you don’t do something you know is wrong, even though someone is pressuring you to do it. *(Numbers 3 & 4 are probably for older grades) 

3. *When you stand up for what is right, even when you stand alone (and use your Tools when others around you do not).

4. When you express yourself, even though some people might disapprove. 

• Praise your students when you see them him or her using courage to speak up in class to ask an academic questions. This can be especially important if it is what others might consider a “stupid” question. Reinforcing the positive element of courage helps all children take academic risks.

• Remind your class how we all have different strengths and that appreciation of our differences is a way of living with an open heart. We must appreciate the amount of Courage it takes for some students to do math, reading, writing, art, etc.

• Much like when using our Toolbox Tools… We can grow stronger the more we use them. The more we work at it and the more we can show courage in situations that feel impossible. Sometimes it takes bending ourselves or getting a little uncomfortable, but we can do it!

• For example…This can be compared to developing the ability to stand up for our beliefs, digging deep to find the courage to speak up, and taking responsibility by using our gifts and abilities to help others who are in need.

Remember: It is normal to lack courage when we are faced with challenges, dangerous or uncomfortable situations, or situations where we need to use our voice. However, we can be determined to develop our “courage muscles” and to remember that we have a responsibility to speak up when something is not right.