#605
At 3:30 a.m., my Apple Watch buzzed with an intriguing prompt: What are the incidents you recollect where you witnessed courage? How much have you applied courage? What lessons have you learned? This stirred my thoughts, and as I reflected, courage emerged as a profound theme in my life and the lives of those I admire. Courage, for me, means taking intelligent risks when there isn’t enough evidence or data to guide you—acting decisively in the face of uncertainty and unknown outcomes. Let me take you through some powerful instances that have defined courage in my eyes.
Witnessing Courage in Action
1. A Medical Nurse’s Bravery in Crisis In 1994, a major off-site emergency erupted at my workplace. Amidst the chaos, my medical nurse, (G R Sawant) a former Army Medical Corps member, displayed unparalleled courage in the first moments as he was witnessing the incident. With quick thinking and decisive actions, he managed the first few critical minutes, setting the tone for a smooth resolution when we took over. His military training shone through, but it was his fearless approach and calm under pressure that stood out. Witnessing this level of courage in real time left an indelible impression on me early in my career.
2. My Mother’s Strength Against Cancer (1990) In 1990, just months before my marriage, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. Her response was nothing short of heroic. Seeking divine support and facing grueling treatments over five months, she bore her ordeal with grace and an absence of self-pity. My father’s steadfast support and my brother’s unwavering presence were instrumental, but it was her inner courage that shone brightest. She went on to live cancer-free for 31 more years, passing away in 2021 due to unrelated complications. Her journey taught me that courage is often quiet, patient, and deeply personal.
3. Donald Trump’s Resilience After an Assassination Attempt Few moments capture resilience and courage like Donald Trump’s reaction during an assassination attempt in July 2024. A bullet missed him, leaving his ear bleeding, yet he stood tall, pumping his fist and rallying the crowd with cries of “Fight, fight, fight!” That moment became an iconic representation of determination—a true testament to courage under pressure. ( I was following the incident a few minutes later, as I wake up 3am)!
4. Sully’s Miracle on the Hudson (Jan 2009) Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and his co-pilot made aviation history with their extraordinary emergency landing on the Hudson River. What struck me was Sully’s calm demeanour and razor-sharp focus, saving all 155 souls aboard. His statement, “Can we get serious now?” (though not verbatim), during the enquiry, (Perhaps first living pilot to describe the tale post a major disaster) encapsulated the gravity of the moment and his commitment to professionalism. Sully’s act of courage in executing a plan with incomplete data, has been etched in aviation history as an unparalleled example of valor and competence.
My Own Acts of Courage
1. First Business Trip to Pakistan (2000) In 2000, amidst the strained Indo-Pak relations following the Kargil conflict, I took my first business trip to Pakistan. Declining would have been acceptable, given the tense climate and lack of prior experience from any one been there,or data. Yet, I chose to go. That decision proved pivotal for my career, opening doors and shaping professional opportunities I could never have anticipated for a global role. It was a calculated risk, grounded in courage and faith in my ability to adapt.
2. Navigating 9/11 in Lahore On the day of the 9/11 attacks, I was in Lahore. The chaos that ensued, including a no-fly directive from our American HQ and our team member expiring Pakistani visas, presented a daunting challenge. Alternate plans were crafted, and as we prepared to execute Plan B, luck intervened—the travel ban was lifted just hours before departure, allowing us to stick to the original plan. This incident underscored the importance of courage coupled with flexibility, foresight, and planning.
Lessons Learned
Courage Must Be Balanced with Strategy
Courage without a clear idea of the end goal can easily transgress into recklessness. Every act of bravery should have a plan and contingency measures for when things go astray.Self-Preservation is Vital
Courage isn’t about foolish heroics; it includes the wisdom to ensure your safety and that of those around you. Acting bravely doesn’t mean disregarding personal well-being.Courage is Contagious
Witnessing acts of courage inspires others. The bravery of my medical nurse in 1994 rallied our team, while my mother’s quiet strength became a pillar for our family. Courage creates ripples of strength and resilience.Faith and Support Amplify Courage
My mother’s unwavering faith and the support of my father and brother reinforced her resolve. Courage thrives in environments of trust, faith, and encouragement.Adaptability is Key
Courage often involves making real-time adjustments to plans. The 9/11 experience taught me that the ability to pivot under pressure is as crucial as the initial decision to act.
Final Thoughts
Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act despite it. It is about intelligent risk-taking, even when faced with incomplete information, uncertainty, or opposition. From my personal experiences to the iconic acts I’ve witnessed, courage remains a defining quality of leadership and resilience. As I reflect on these moments, I am reminded that courage, when tempered with wisdom, planning, and adaptability, becomes a transformative force in our lives. I also feel "Fortune favours the Brave, which is nothing but preceeded by courage in execution"
What are your acts of courage? Reflect, act, and grow.
Karthik
11/12/2024 9am.
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