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Madeline Meiers

Sidekick Courage


I would not consider myself a courageous person. I have never climbed a mountain, fought a bear, ran through fire barefoot, or swallowed a sword. What I have done is survive high school by blending in, and then move a state away to attend a private, liberal arts college to major in English (which, in some eyes, might be considered very courageous).

My love of English was kindled by my love to read. I would get lost in others’ adventures, dreaming of the day when I would become a hero of my own. The characters’ acts of bravery and valor inspired me to become more like them. However, one of the ingredients needed to become a hero is courage, an attribute that proved difficult for my shy, introverted self. But as I continued reading different stories, I realized that the main character is not the only one who displays courage. Their sidekicks possess bravery too, although in a slightly different way.

Take, for example, Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. He might not have been the one who carried the ring to Mordor, but he stayed by Frodo Baggins’s side the whole trip, encouraging and helping out where needed. In fact, some have argued that Sam is the actual hero in the story, for Frodo would not have been strong enough on his own.

Another famous example is John Watson, the trusted companion of Sherlock Holmes. Although he does not possess the insane observational skills as the famous detective, he provides critical help to Sherlock on his cases, as well as fills the needed position of friend. In the BBC adaptation of the duo, Sherlock admits to Watson’s invaluable service, saying, “I will solve your murder, but it takes John Watson to save your life” (Season 3, Episode 3).

This is the kind of courage I wish to possess as I pursue a career in editing. Plenty of people need help being heard, and I can be part of them beginning their courageous conversations. I can provide the support it takes to have one’s voice come out strong and clear. I can give the shove one needs when one feels stuck. And I can be the whisper to not give up, to keep going, to keep writing about what matters.

This is my life’s dream, to be able to use my skills to help others. We do not all need to have heroic courage; sidekick courage is just as important. But both kinds of courage need to work side by side in order to say what needs to be said. Together, we can have courageous conversations.

Madeline Meiers is from Mansfield, Ohio and is majoring in English and Honors Humanities with a Writing minor. She hopes to become an editor for a publishing company after graduation. Her hobbies include reading, playing piano and oboe, and watching movies with friends.


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