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Courage

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Stephen Hawking is a Man of Courage Men and women across the globe have faced adversity; many have cowered in fear, while few have stood strong and demonstrated what can only be described as courage. Stephen Hawking has faced Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) with great courage to become one of today's brilliant scientific minds. His brain is the only muscle that has been unaffected by the ailment. This great metaphorical strength is the ideal definition of courage. ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As motor neurons degenerate, they can no longer send impulses to the muscle fibers that normally result in muscle movement (www.biography.com). The disease is terminal, and has yet to have a cure. In Stephen’s case, he was diagnosed at age 21 while studying Cosmology at the University of Cambridge. Mr. Hawking’s parents, Frank and Isobel Hawking, pushed him to pursue medicine as his field of study. As a child he knew he often stared at the stars in wonder and went against his parent’s first choice. His educational achievements have been constant and prosperous. He currently holds a PhD in physics and 12 honorary degrees in theoretical cosmology and quantum gravity. Attaining such an education in the face of adversity shows his true strength and courage as a human being. Stephen’s long list of achievements, whether they be academic or scientific, are a display of great courage and mental strength that should be emulated by all. Stephen himself once said,” "One, remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Two, never give up work. Work gives you meaning and purpose and life is empty without it. Three, if you are lucky enough to find love, remember it is there and don't throw it away” (www.mentalfloss.com). This advice given to his three children applies to daily life for just about anyone. This scientific mastermind is a true living hero who defines the word courage in the eyes of his readers and peers. Anyone faced with a debilitating adversity should look to his example to learn where his inner strength and personal courage can be applied to their lives.

WORKS CITED 1. Reference: http://www.biography.com/people/stephen-hawking-9331710 2. Reference: http://mentalfloss.com/article/32149/11-stephen-hawking-quotes-his-71st-birthday

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