On Day 7 of our #NineDaysNineMuses Navratri journey, the theme is Courage. These powerful stories and poems celebrate bravery, resilience, and the inner strength to face challenges, stand for truth, and rise above fear.
Courage in Everyday Life
A tiny power to fight oppression,
Standing firm before tyranny and injustice,
Courage to stick to your truth,
Or fighting the enemy for the nation’s sake.
Courage takes many forms and shapes,
Shields the timid from a monster’s gaze,
Being bold and frank to pinpoint faults,
Confessing your mistakes at your ego’s cost.
— Sarita Khullar
Poem: Divine Courage
Oh Divine ‘Mother’, your bravery stimulates my weak senses,
Oh ‘Shakti’, your vigour and valour embolden my meek sensibilities,
Oh ‘Devi’, Maa! Your wisdom and dauntlessness invigorates my existence,
Oh ‘Durga’, Mata! Your valour and mettle vitalizes my attitude,
Oh ‘Mother of Creation’, your determination and gallantry empower me with ‘COURAGE’ and confidence,
Oh ‘Kalaratri’, your blessings alleviate my darkness and ignorance.
— Shakuntala Kanakagiri
Silent Battles
Her silent battles, unseen strife,
Roller coaster ride was her life.
They said be soft and still,
Girl is seen, not heard, at her will.
She bends but never breaks,
Her spirit rises in spite of all the ache.
With gentle grace, she stands her ground,
Like a Queen ready to be crowned.
World tried to fill her mind with fear,
But her inner light was burning bright and clear.
For her courage was not in a roar,
Working with patience, she is ready to soar.
— Navita Goel
Real-Life Bravery
It was night when hooligans cornered Prem’s best friend, Jewel, to rob his gold chain and bracelet. Prem, trembling but full of courage, stepped in to protect him. A knife flashed, almost striking, when teacher James rushed in. He seized the attacker’s wrist, the blade slicing his own hand. Blood gushed, yet James fought until the gang scattered. Meanwhile, Jewel had already called the police, who soon arrived to arrest them. Prem later received a bravery award, while James lay bandaged in hospital. His wife Diana scolded, “Next time, fight with chalk and duster!” James chuckled—his boys were safe.
— Annie Meenu
If these stories of courage inspired you, share your thoughts in the comments below!