Courage is defined as “the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, or pain, without fear.” Life is filled with moments where each one of us is faced with a choice to step out of our comfort zone and be brave. Sometimes life forces these moments upon us such as a change of jobs, illness, or sudden death. In other cases we decide to do something that makes us uncomfortable, but the ultimate goal will be worth it, such as trying a new food, learning an instrument, getting in shape, or pursuing a lifelong goal or dream.

Here in Lawrence County, Indiana we have a highway signs that say, “Welcome to Lawrence County.  Home of Astronauts Grissom, Walker, Bowersox“.  We are very proud of the three men from this county who had the courage to become astronauts and make a positive difference in our world concerning the study and exploration of outer space!

This month “Courage” is one of the superpower words we learn about at school. During class we discuss what courage is and then sing a song I wrote about Courage. Before singing, we look at pictures and short videos about the three men, then discuss how courage played a part in what they chose as a career. It’s great to have three astronauts from this area that serve as great role models of courage for our students. Both Charlie Walker and Ken Bowersox attended Lincoln Elementary School, and stop by the school when they are in the area to tell the students about their experience as astronauts! We are very fortunate to have direct contact with these men. Below is a picture of Ken Bowersox talking to our After School club at Lincoln Elementary School. We also talk about having courage to perform on stage, the courage of our soldiers, courage to say “I’m sorry”, or even trying spinach, which usually gets a big YUCK from a large percentage of the students.

The third astronaut from this area, Gus Grissom, grew up in Mitchell which is just south of Bedford. He was killed along with two other astronauts – Ed White and Roger Chaffee, during a pre-launch test in 1967. At Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, Mr. Grissom’s hometown, there is a Gus Grissom Memorial Museum where students can learn about his courageous life and career.

Several years ago I started writing songs about skills that will help both kids and adults in every day life. I was inspired to write the songs and produce a children’s CD called “Blueprints for Life” after attending workshops through an organization called CLASS. I base my lesson plans around words that I call “super power words” such as courage, organization, self control, etc. We discuss the word and sing the song that coordinates with the word at the beginning of each class. The words and songs change every two weeks. My students usually leave my classroom humming the song. Music is a great memory tool!

It’s important to help our children find ways they can find courage in their lives to be the movers and shakers in this world.

“Be an Astronaut in space, that takes courage.  Flying far to a new place.  That takes courage.”

-Becky Muncy

Lawrence county sign picture by Cindy Cornette Selgle