What is courage?

What is courage? This question came to me when two teenage girls were standing outside our booth at the farmers’ market.  It was obvious that they wanted to come in but couldn’t seem to do it without some encouragement.  They did come in, after I invited them while smiling and saying that I didn’t bite but did sometimes offend people.  We had a good time together and I think they’ll be back.

Is courage a lack of fear?  An overwhelming curiosity?  A clear sense of purpose? A desire to be a part of something?

The answer is probably different for every person and situation.  But I think it would be beneficial if we could figure out where and why our kids display courage.  It could tell us a lot about them and about us.