The Wise Coward

[Feeshtu]

The word “coward” is almost always used in a negative context.

But, is being a coward actually a bad thing?

I’d argue that the coward is the wisest of the bunch.
Because they avoid unnecessary risks.

Hypothetically, what would you do if someone challenged you?
Let’s say you were out running and some guy started yelling at you?

The brave man would stop running and counter the other man’s behavior.

The coward would simply keep running and ignore the guy.

Or let’s take another scenario.

Let’s say you were in line and someone cut in front of you.

Well, the brave man would object.
The coward would remain silent and let it go.

In both of these scenarios, the brave man is likely to get into a fight.
The coward avoids a fight in both situations.

The brave man must prove his bravery to everyone and himself.
And this will be his undoing…..his pride.

Every brave man is a fool.
Putting himself at risk to look big to others.
He is even a slave to his own opinion of himself.

The coward has overcome his pride and does what is wise, even if it makes him look weak.

Now, I’m not saying that there is never a time for personal war.
But, how often do we make decisions based on what others will think of us?
Decisions that put ourselves in danger in order to get the approval of others?

The coward does not seek the approval of others.
He seeks his own safety, even if others disapprove.

But, if others disapprove of you seeking your own safety…..what does that say about them?

It says that they don’t care about you.
That they are willing to send you to the slaughter over any trivial thing.

And why would you want the approval of people like that?

 

[FastBlast]

The coward does not seek the approval of others.

The wise sigma

 

[daydreamER]

When I think of myself committing cowardice it is more out of spite for other people rather than indifference. Yes, the coward you speak of is wise, but only when you believe in extreme individualism. There is nothing wise about saving yourself at the expense of others, but I understand and personally feel the sentiment when I take into account how others have treated me throughout my life.

 

[Emba]

Wise cow goes om~moo!