Courage in the Face of Fear

What does it mean to have courage?
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the knowledge that something is more important than fear.

Gratitude is more important than fear. Our matriarch Leah named her fourth son Judah, meaning "I am grateful." It is from this son that the Jewish people take our name.

Generosity is more important than fear. Abigail brought supplies to King David and his men, despite her husband's refusal.

Compassion is more important than fear. Each time God grew angry with the Israelites, Moses advocated for compassion.

Truth is more important than fear. Facing the prospect of genocide, Queen Esther revealed the truth of her identity to save her people.

Loving-kindness is more important than fear. Despite their wickedness, Abraham tried to protect the citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Awe is more important than fear. When Jacob awoke from his dream, he declared, "Achein yeish Adonai bamakom hazeh, v'anochi lo yadati. Behold, God is in this place and I did not know."

So I must ask again: what does it mean to have courage? Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the knowledge that everything and everyone is more important.