240- Don’t Suppress his Courage

The “Indian Christian” magazine once reported that a violent army officer hit a young soldier since he misinterpreted his courage as an expression of rudeness. Although the soldier felt significantly demeaned, military regulations were such that he could not defend himself and all he said to the officer was, “I will make you regret this.”

In a subsequent fierce battle with the enemy, the officer was wounded and taken captive. The same soldier was brave enough to penetrate the enemy lines, meet and identify the wounded officer and rescue him. The officer then felt the soldier’s love and appreciated his bravery. He was grateful to him and thanked him for his courage since he was the only soldier who had insisted on such a venture. While thanking the soldier, the officer shook his hand and said, “How can I take back the insult that I inadvertently caused you?”

The soldier replied with a smile, “I told you I’d make you regret it.”

Since that day, the two became friends.

Let us neither suppress our brothers’ courage nor hurt their feelings since this could have a devastating effect on them. Rather, let us support and encourage them, thus helping them use this courage, of which they are so proud.

This call is directed to parents as well as to leaders whether in church or in secular life. Let us support those who work with us, not suppress their talents and let us listen to them and respect their rights and liberties.

→ English translation of the story here at St-Takla.org: لا تكتم شجاعته!

Who Will Wash her Hands?

Short Stories (Stories for the Youth) Books by Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty

A Musical Note