In the midst of atrocities, there is the silent presence of the brave individuals who act and stand apart from the crowd, who risk their own lives by rescuing others or by voicing their dissent. The actions of these exceptional individuals raise questions as to why they were able to do what they did and why other people don't. But if we look closer at their histories, we discover that they may not be as exceptional as we think.Bravery takes different forms in different contexts. Such as the young male patient, a war hero, struggling to separate from his refugee parents. Or Bailey Thompson, the 17-year-old who rescued concert-goers under sniper fire in Las Vegas in 2017. Or the student protestors in Hong Kong marching to protect their future and beliefs. The compulsion to act bravely is largely ascribed to conscience, that is, being true to one's beliefs. Those who act bravely do not feel as if they have a choice, because not to act is experienced as a betrayal of self. As such, bravery is a fundamental assertion not only of the self but of a moral order necessary to sustain the self.The perfect book for these unprecedented times, as we all need to find our own inner resources to face whatever lies ahead.
