Hi, Mary - thanks for the additional comments.

Hmmm ... your experiences reinforce that courage is a commodity much needed, but more rare than we might think.

In the political arena, I believe this is especially prevalent.  Since the standard for success often includes winning an election, the non-heroic behavior is reinforced because the "handler" thinks that victory had to do with steering their candidate away from the controversy, instead of coaching them through it.

Consequences do not always connect directly to behaviors ... and that is a problem.

You are probably right on target with your observation about the "handler" giving up when the "leader" resists.   This is exactly where courage becomes essential, but is also where the battle may be lost.

Any thoughts on how to help people become more courageous?

John