SMILE On!

ML

“The movie The Blind Side is opening up this month. It is a true story about honor and courage. What do those two words mean to you and how are they evident in your life?”

Ava age 11~
It’s important to be courageous so that you are not afraid and you’re not in that shadow, so you can break free. I’m courageous by trying new things and going with the flow and believing in myself whether it works out or not. Honor to me is about respecting those who teach you in all ways of life. I honor those people by being nice and listening to what they have to say.

Sinead age 17~
The words courage and honor are really strong words, in my opinion. I actually saw the preview for The Blind Side last night at the movie theatre, and I was personally moved from just the trailer. Sandra Bullock’s character takes a young teen living in poverty into her home, and treats him as her son, regardless of the fact that they are different races, and they come from very different backgrounds. Her actions are very courageous, and as a result, she can be seen as very honorable. Courage is the quality that makes someone willing to face a difficult situation with their heads held high, and with lots of bravery. For someone to be considered honorable, they have to be, in my opinion, held with high regard, considered highly credible, and be very respected. This is why Sandra Bullock’s character illustrates both courage and honor throughout the movie, because she, without fear, places herself in a very difficult situation, and undoubtedly ends up defeating that very controversial, challenging issue with pride. Courage and honor may be very hard to obtain for people on a daily basis, but I believe when someone does prove to be courageous or honorable, it is a very big deal. With Veteran’s Day this week, courage and honor are very important words to keep in the back of our minds, and remember the courageous men and women who fought through many wars to give the children of this generation the opportunities that we possibly have done nothing to earn. To me, that is very honorable.

Tess age 9~
I see a lot of courage at school kids standing up for one another. I think courage means being and feeling strong on the inside and helping one another and not begging someone else to do it for you. Honor means feeling good inside of you. And feeling good for something. There are kids that are honored for things but that’s the different from having honor.

McKenna age 11~
These words mean a lot to me. I dance with my competitive dance team and It’s just an honor to be able to dance there and to be able to keep on getting better it just feels so good. The word courage take me back a couple years ago when my dad was in the hospital after he got in an accident. He had to go into surgery as soon as he got there and I was so scared. I had no idea what was going on and I had to stay with my Aunt. I was so happy to see my dad, give him a hug, and figure out what happened. So I really needed some courage the time I was at my Aunts house, but now I know where to find my courage. But anyway honor means to be able to know your appreciated wherever you’ve done good. Courage means to be able to keep yourself from getting too scared and going insane.

Elita age 9~
This movie looks incredible. The words honor and courage mean to me, accomplishments, and to be brave and tells others advice.

Rachel age 11~
Courage is doing what is right, even when everyone else is doing the wrong thing. Honor is your strong character in doing what is right. If you or I were being honorable, we would be doing what is right according to our own personal moral principles. I know some very honorable and courageous people, and I one day hope to be considered one of them.

Abi age 10~
When I think of someone who lives with honor and courage I think of the Yingst family. They live in my neighborhood and are some of our best friends. Mr. Yingst is in the Army and has had to Iraq twice since I have been in Elementary school. He is giving up time with his family to serve our country. Mrs. Yingst is always happy and kind even though she is alone taking care of 2 boys. I can’t imagine living without my Dad for years. This family has the most honor and courage of anyone I know.

Jaedyn age 6~
Honor and courage. I think courage means for me to keep trying. Honor means to me that you are special.