Courage

This is a shout out to all the people who read this blog in countries where freedom still a mirage.

Something happened recently that jolted me into the realization that not everyone can read what they want to read or write and publish what they want others to read. I’m not talking about illiteracy (a whole other issue), I’m talking about censorship.

It takes no courage for me, in Canada, to write whatever I want to write. All it takes is some research, some thought and my fingers on the keyboard. And, to be honest, my thoughts are not particularly deep or world shaking.

But what about those who are trying to express to others thoughts and ideas about freedom and other important issues?d  What about people trying to bring about change in a country or region where dissent is frowned on or dangerous? In repressive regimes writing your opinions can be a dangerous occupation. Jail and “disappearance” are definite possibilities.

If I want to write about the deficiencies of my government, at whatever level, I’m free to do that. No courage required, just the energy to get angry enough to do it.

Short of libel and slander, I can lash out as angrily as I want, use every hateful word in the dictionary and let my sarcasm have full rein. No courage required.

Or I can go back to ancient philosophers and point out errors of logic and perception in erudite prose. I could write fiction that lasers into any evils or personal weaknesses I see in government ministers. It could get me a lots of useful personal publicity. It might require talent but it doesn’t require courage.

Within the regimes where the media is controlled personal publicity is probably the last thing a writer wants. Below the radar would be an excellent place to be.

So as we tell our stories and write our speeches in free countries spare a thought for those who cannot do this. Spare a thought for those whose writing and speaking require courage. For those who desperately feel the need to have their ideas heard. For those who are not allowed to read this.

If courage were required, could I write? Could you?