How do you define courage?

"Standing up for what you believe, regardless of the consequences," is how the fellow baseball fan described courage.

During a lull in the game, and I asked a guy a couple of seats down the row, how he would define courage. It took a few minutes to get warmed up and he delivered the home run definition.

His description hit close to home for two reasons; 1) this explanation captured a common version of what tests our courage in our hyper-sensitive world, and 2) I am more aware of my failings to make a stand than my successes.

The cost of violating the ambiguous line of political correctness is high. The risk is an extreme backlash against saying anything that carries a hint of offensiveness to anyone within earshot. The Internet and social media have redefined the range of earshot from a few feet, to worldwide.

A benefit of our brave new world includes holding the extremist accountable, but the cost is measured in the untold number of silenced voices that may otherwise speak. A healthy society requires standing for our beliefs, regardless of the cultural popularity.

Demonstrated courage is through stepping forward and adding our voice to the discussion.

Sadly, I have chosen silence more often than courage. There are friends, co-workers, and causes that have suffered because I resisted the call of courage and gave in to the perceived risks. I am aware of this temptation and expending effort to develop the muscle of courage.

What does it look like for you? When have you stepped up and weathered the storms that come with being courageous?

What aspects of courage most resonate with you? How does this aspect influence society? When did you demonstrate courage in this area and when did you stumble, why?

What book needs written?

The best books are written, the greatest songs are sung, and the end of the Internet reached. Put your pencils down; we are done.

One side of the brain declares this must be true; after all how many more books, songs and web pages are needed? The other side of the brain states that this is inconceivable, and there is much more to be created.

Who would have thought that a young wizard named Harry would turn the modern literary world on its head with massive book sales.

Apparently, the ways to set"I love you" and "I hate you" to music are legion, as each week new albums are released with the same themes, but new arrangements.

Google estimates the global Internet web page count at about 475 Billion today. There is a margin of error of at least 1; it depends on when I hit "post."

The concept of self-publishing has lowered to barriers to entry for getting your material onto the published page. Our excuses for not letting our voice be heard continues to evaporate.

So, what book needs to be written?

The answer may be your spouse, partner, friend, those leading your tribe, or the one whose teeth you brushed this morning. Asking this inquiry of your community may open up opportunities for a fresh perspective to be brought to bear, and change at least your little corner of the world.

No one ever has been able to bring the same perspective to a topic as you can deliver. It would be a missed opportunity to slip silently away and take your ideas with you. The public awaits to hear your voice as either a writer or an encouraging voice to those around you. Make your voice heard.

Going Further: Where is the literary world silent? What book do you need? What questions have not been answered? How can you contribute your voice? What voices around you need to be heard? How can you support those that need to be heard?