Courage

Sean J. Harrigan chose this quote to accompany his senior portrait in the 2008 Florentian: "Courage is fear holding on a minute longer." (Gen. George S. Patton). The night I handed Sean his diploma, it was announced that he would be entering the Marines, which he did in July. Little did any of us know what would then follow. In today's Eagle Tribune there is a marvelous tale about Lance Corporal Harrigan that is worth reading. Go on line and find it. It's the story of how he saved a fellow Marine who lost both arms and both legs after stepping on a land mine in Afghanistan. It will move you to tears. Harrigan responded with courage, daring, and the calmness that Marine training, and his home and Central education prepared him for, and lived up to the courage so aptly described by General Patton. In all humility, he did not look for headlines, nor fanfare, and in his typical "low key" manner shows the world what doing good, laying down our life for another, are all about. Let us pray for the courage to address our daily challeneges with the same boldness and courage, and let us pray for Sean, his family and for the young man to whom he gave a second chance at life, Marine Corporal Todd Nicely. A dear young friend of mine, also a Marine and platoon leader, landed in Afghanistan yesterday, Anthony Vercollone., to begin an 8 month tour or duty. Please pray for him and all those serving in the face of daily danger. Thank you.
Bro. Rene