I know it sounds cheesy and nerdy , but JRR Tolkien wrote that the true hero of the Lord of the Rings was Samwise Gamgee. Sam's love for his friend Frodo , his homeland , and his beloved wife Rosie , gave him the strength to carry on in the face of insurmountable adversities and deny the power offered to him by The One Ring . True strength comes from love of something or someone beyond self . Sam had no skills at fighting or adventuring when he became a member of The Fellowship , but his courage , borne from love , allowed him to perform tasks above his training and experience .
When Audie Murphy was asked how he got the courage to jump up on a burning tank and man a .50 while a large group of Germans were shooting at him, he said "they were killing my friends and it made me mad". I wish America were still the type of place were we appreciated our hero soldiers so much that Hollywood worked on making them movie stars.
Murphy did so many things that could/should have gotten him killed in WWII. His movies, there was always something calm-in-the center-of the storm that came across as Real.
Dennis, I don't think that's true. No disrespect to Audie Murphy, but I rest assured there are many Audies who have rested in foreign soil since WWII and in Arlington and small town cemeteries around America, cut down attempting similar heroics, but destined to a different fate.
I did volunteer firefighting, security at a hospital, and am now a nurse. You are absolutely right. Skill can help you feel more confident and reduce anxiety when going into a situation, but skill alone isn't enough. I have seen people with great skill lose their cool under pressure. I love when the adrenaline starts flowing, because it's almost like time slows down. My thinking becomes so quick and concise.
Josh Allison got out of the Air Force a few months ago, it was a great decision for me, and that GI forever bill that trump signed is pretty nice too, no time limit on going to school now, so many great things come from serving our country including building you up as a person
_"Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear."_ *-Mark Twain* • _"Courage is being scared to death...and saddling up anyway."_ *-John Wayne* • _"Courage is grace under pressure."_ *-Ernest Hemingway* Keep up the good work my friends.
If you have something/ someone to fight for. Something/ someone to live for, or die for. That courage will be there when it's needed. The last fire fight I was in this one phrase kept popping up in my head. "If I don't pull my own weight my brothers will die." It wasn't out of fear or panic. I think it was just my subconscious reminding me that this wasn't training. The stakes are as high as they're going to get. That's my half a cent's worth. Take it or leave it.
don't you hate it when you type something up that's from the heart and a day or two later you realize that you're the idiot that used the wrong weight/wait? haha
I think it's called motivation. For most of us, our personal safety and the safety of our loved ones serves as the motivation that gives us the extra push find courage and overcome fear.
I would also add, that it is in the face of insurmountable odds, or odds that are at least not in your favor that the logic/analytical side of your brain says "get out of here, survive" kicks in. This is the fear, the "flight" aspect when the danger is presented. That happens to everyone, question is how long does that thought stay in your brain and cause "inaction" which in it of itself is a timer that will increase your chance of harm or death. The creative/artistic side of the brain then has to be activated. How do I solve this problem, how can I get out of this predicament, and how will I save those in need while doing so? When that is activated, training is then relied on and the brain then has a release of dopamine and the body has a shot of adrenaline and the assertive confidence that "ya, I can do this" kicks in. It's a battle between reason/logic and backbone/training. The more prepared you are for any situation, the more confidence you will have. But true courage as John said, will come in the face of fear, when no matter how much training you have, when the odds are against you, you still push forward, because there's a chance that by you doing so will help save one life, even if yours is sacrificed for doing so. This call to action comes deep from the "character" that the person already has built in him/her, and is what makes our ordinary everyday people capable of doing the extraordinary and otherwise impossible. And another reason that I have huge respect for all of our troops/men/women in service that put their lives on the line, because there's a chance that they can make a difference and save lives and make the world a better place, even if their lives are sacrificed in that process. That's the mark of true courage, not being fearless, but facing fear, and pushing through it because if you don't, worse things can happen to the ones that you love and or care about.
👍 Courage comes from fear. Fear is natural and will keep you alive BUT, you must learn to collect yourself, control it and be steady and calculate your move. Anger will get you killed. JMO God Bless ( us all )
Without fear, there can't be courage, because courage is the state of overcoming your fear, fighting instead of freezing, forgetting death and fight to the end, yours or your enemies. But courage is not anger, with anger, you forget the learned, you are not there, you are behind red blanket. Anger will fool you, you are overestimating your self and you will have lost, before the fight even started. While you surely need fear, you have to overcome, you need also a reason to overcome this fear. Yes it could be love, but it could also just be the believe in a better world or the sole will for survival.
That something more that we fight for. Is exactly why I fallow you on RUclips. I'm not the most eloquent person on the planet. So I sometimes have trouble conveying my thoughts. But listening to you speak on the subject helps me to explain it. Thanks.
This is one of your best videos by far. I coach martial arts and particularly deal with competitive fighters. This relationship between confidence and courage is a fascinating one. I believe a fighter or a warrior can be confident through toughness or skill but courage takes something more. As you highlight character has a key role as does in my opinion fear. The age old saying there is no courage without fear is very very true. Great observation.
matrat2006 very true. The man without fear is not courageous but rather is dangerous. I have seen that be true a few times. I have seen people put a group at risk simply because they didn't have a respect for the danger the situation presented.
I too have coached and trained MMA fighters and wrestlers and one thing always remains true, without a Warrior Heart they will not succeed in tough combat sports like that. Seems like 8 out of 10 guys who walk in and say they want to be a fighter end up dropping out in less than a week. But, those two who stick with it, as rare as they are, they have a true warrior heart.
I love this channel! one of my favorite gun channel's on RUclips. I really enjoy the blend of philosophy that you add to these video's that 95% of the other gun channels don't even discuss. it's more than just the guns and skills! Keep up the fantastic work!.
I think that Courage, Character, and Selfless Service are innate, and cannot be taught! Skills yes, but the rest no. It takes a special kind of person to courageously stand up when others struggle with fear! Thanks John for another insightful, and thought provoking video! Well done, Sir, well done!
Completely agree, found my self in those words...during time i played rugby, i wasnt fastest, strongest, most skillful with the ball, but i was always one of guys who would charge into opponents lines and tackle biggest guys from their team.....
'Do something i am afraid of in life to learn what i am not made of so i can fix that' that is the best advice i think i have ever heard. i will do that. thank you. if it works out, you will hear about it. if it doesn't, you will hear about what i learned about myself. thats a win win in my book.
I just emailed our son a link to this video. He starts USAF TACP schoolhouse tomorrow. Our hope for him is that after all the training and practice and exercises and schools - when he's deployed in support of teams - he is the one you talk about, the one who keeps moving forward and gets the job done. Thank you for this and so many other pearls of wisdom.
Thanks, John. I got to meet John a year ago, in dec 2020. He’s an awesome dude and I’m so grateful for him and men like him to be here helping us grow into better men.
Great message, I’m a Sergeant in a Mental Health Unit at a maximum security prison, staff are assaulted at minimum 3 times a weak. I’ve seen new hires that are beef and potatoes boys that freeze up and take a massive beat down from a 125lbs walking lithium commercial. I think your absolutely right when it comes to face your fears. But at the end of the day for me it comes down to I can train ignorant, I can motivate lazy, I can’t fixed scared. For me it’s always been reflex and training, I don’t really remember doing the action just the outcome.
John...very well articulated!!! Not everyone has the courage to face the horrors of evil knowing that evil may win but still willing to fight evil. Carry on my friend!
Courage is not the absence of fear, courage is responding in spite of the fear. Strength, training, high speed gear and everything else matters, but courage is the glue that holds it all together and without courage, one is far less effective.
in my experience courage is the spark that allows you to be totally committed to the plan/action that utilizes the skills ....and I believe that character molded by spiritual fitness provides that spark. Great food for thought! The Poet speaks and causes thought!! Thank You!
I rarely post on RUclips vids but I had to on this one. You articulated this point fabulously. Way too many people are quick to judge others during their stressful and dynamic situations but have never TRULY been tested themselves. This is especially of true of folks online who have never served in the armed forces or LE. We can shoot on a square range or even do scenarios till our eyes bleed but till your actually faced with a moment where you know you may lose your life we should never judge others too hastily on there actions. Thank you for the video
John I truly admire you. Your ideas, the way you put the videos and how passionate about being trained and capable for the needed time. Very inspiring. Thanks! Keep the good job, you are being heard.
Your message provokes introspection. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge with those of us who tune in to your channel. Because you provide a wealth of information and training. I have already adopted some of your teachings and techniques.
John, RVN vet here. Discovered that courage, especially physical courage, isn't something one has all the time, it is something that has to be brought to the situation... and it can be overcome by a given situation and one's perception of it. Every time... Courage, however you define it,, is something that has to be brought to every situation, every time, and it will be different every time. I think this is why some guys, myself included, can choke at some situations but not at others. It is a very powerful and fragile mindset in some ways. Been thinking on this question since 1970 and that is what I came up with.
LOVE is the FUEL for real courage. I totally agree about what your saying when it comes to training. In the 27 years I have been a firefighter the public often ask or remarks that they would be too afraid to do what the fire service does. From haz-mat to climbing trees to get wayward cats down(yes we do that). Pondering those words I relate it to training for the most part but in the end I realize that training just provides the structure but it’s my love for my community and fellow brothers that compels me to run to the danger when others are running from it. Money is not a factor and there is no fame involved which again leaves love. You are correct that courage is being afraid and continuing on in spite of your fear but without love for humanity you would not face real death as calmly as we do.
I've noticed that I have taken alot of your old & newer videos, and added em to my favorites list. I can honestly say, I like your opinions & the way you think. I wish more people in the world could think & speak logically like this.
“Can a man be brave If he is afraid” “That is the only time he can be brave” This quote is similar to what your saying here and it is a very important distinction. If you do not fear something then you are not brave for doing it. You can be very skilled at it and it can be dangerous but without fear there is no courage.
YOU are spot on! Courage is something that you either have or you don't... That's why I think we saw 4 of the Broward Cowards stand down in that latest school shooting. I'm not saying I would have been different, but my several years in the Army and deploying has challenged my courage and that's when I learned about myself more than I ever thought I could have! But yes, this video was spot on my friend!
I’ve seen the same thing with several coworkers, guys that are squared away on the square range with their skills. But when we run simunitions, and force in force they freeze and/or choke. I’ve also seen coworkers who aren’t confident on the range but when the crap hits the fan they become fearless. Good video
I find if someone will not sacrifice little things, they wont put any chips down when it gets hard either. My warrior poet friend and I read our bibles together, talk and pray before our training almost every day. But we always pray for courage in life, love for others, and boldness with the gospel. Love you brother, stay strong and God bless you.
Well said! John, the world is a better place because if men like you. I know very little about you, but the little I do know, inspires me to be a better man. -aspiring warrior poet.
Not sure if I have watched one of your videos and not learned something of great value. Throughout my life I have always had someone I looked up to, admired, and had great deal of respect for. In a way I though of them as a father figure. Then I started watching your video's again. It crossed my mind that we are about the same age and maybe you are more of an older brother that I can learn from. Keep up the good work sir.
Very inspiring wisdom and words john I just want to thank you for sharing your your thoughts and perspectives in this channel, I continue to learn from your work and experience every time.
I keep John as my spirit animal. But in all seriousness. I'm with you, it's more the character of the man. It's what's in your heart when the chips are down.
Courage also allows you to choose when and where...to do or not to do...choose your battles...it doesn't mean you lack courage if you walk away from or talk your way out...but knowing you can take action if it is needed is the key.
Well said, as usual. You really are well spoken, insightful, and thorough. Keep up the great work! I hope to train with you one day. I'm sure I'll learn a lot
Good chat John. The way I characterize Courage Bravery whatever you want to call it is that true courage comes from Fear. The Fear of what will/can happen if you don’t act, if you don’t keep your head, if you don’t make a move of co-mission. That fear is for what will happen to your battle buddy or your family or your country or whatever it is that you care about deeply. You have to put aside the completely natural fear of what can happen to You in that moment to serve/protect something beyond yourself. Which is really born of some kind of love. Thats where “the Poet” comes in, all great or good warriors are deep down, no matter how jaded, romantics at heart. Also in my experience coolness counts as much if not more than skill in combat. I have seen guys that are “range Gods” completely fold or get paralyzed by the personal fear that everyone feels when the metal hits the meat. Real coolness comes from being able to compartmentalize that fear and keep your wits and do your job. Anyway those ramblings are just my opinions born from my experiences and observations. Soldier on Troop.
I was a police officer on the streets for 25 years. I was also a firearms competitor. My very large Sheriff's office told me I was the best shooter. It wasn't until my shooting review board that I realized that I could actually do the job in any situation. Training does not beat courage. I don't know how I found it. I just did what I needed to do. I can live with that. My three on duty spinal injuries, and cardiac arrest, made me retire. I will be ok on my death bed knowing I did what I could, and prevailed.
This is a good video, and as a combat veteran I agree with him. There are two important points here that need to be remembered. 1. The point he is making, which is that skill at marksmanship or whatever, and physical courage are not necessarily the same thing, and that in combat, courage is the more vital of the two. 2. The former notwithstanding, skill does not magically improve because the situation is critical--actually, it degrades some. So if 300m from the kneeling is a rough shot for you on the flat range, it will tend to be borderline impossible in combat. So being skilled is critical, because those skills will not materialize by magic when they are needed.
Fit'n Fire yep , I love watching John lovell's videos ! He's amazing , and I learn so much from him ! If I was physically more able , and able financially i would love to go train with him ! I just try to soak in what I can , and then go to the range as much as possible with my wife and practice / train as often as we can ! No one ever knows enough and or can train enough , it's are responsibility and duty for those of us who carry and use firearms. And he is a fellow Christian as Myself . Enjoy your day Fit n Fire ...... 👍
John, excellent video. Very true. I would phrase one point a little differently. Principles are a large factor in courage. Those invariant beliefs. Knowing what is worth fighting for and having that ingrained in your belief system long before the fight ever happens. It may be a thing, an ideal or a position but what your underlying principles are plays a big part in what you will courageously defend. Those who’s principles change with politics will rarely exhibit courage in a fight. God bless.
I agree, courage will appear when things are at their worst, and it will happen in a few seconds, instinctively. Yes training certainly helps to coordinate a response, but courage is what it takes to get that response to manifest itself into reality.
You've sparked my intrigue making me ponder, if those who are so courageous have a confidence in Christ that they may not always outwardly express. Or have they yet to realize that's what stirs them? I'm glad you're here John. I've appreciated all your content that you've put forth and growing wisdom.
I beleive that is true and a good way to describe it. If that is the case I'd not be that helpful in severe situations as I don't care that much about things in recent years. Be safe out there.
I've been in line work for 20 plus years and what you're saying is true in my work as well. When the ice cream turns to s**t some act out of instinct and the guys that have flapped their gums about their skills freeze.
I can't tell you how much this reverberated in me. My entire life story, spread out on a brief RUclips video by someone I never met. Half my life ago, I dated a girl who's mother's boyfriend was bipolar, off his meds, and (to cut a long story short) was trying to kidnap his niece. I initially stood up to him, but he was a 27 yr old man staring down a scrawny 14 yr old boy. I froze as he walked around me to get to the girl. Ultimately the mother jumped on his back, I grabed the girl and ran out the house. Police took care of him shortly after that. But ever since that moment, I told myself, NEVER. AGAIN. I refused to allow my shy and timid nature allow another person to be victimized like that in front of me. Part of the fear was doubt, as I had no idea what my body was capable of, but I grew to not care about my well being when I get into third party encounters like that. Whether I'm fully prepared or not, whether I stand a chance or not, I take the best shot I can at neutralizing a threat. It's why I work private security now. It's why I hope to join law enforcement someday. Not everyone can fight evil. It's only right that those of who are willing do so. So until the day God brings me home, I hone my skills as best I can and make it harder for people to beat me. 👍🏾👍🏾
Between my time in the military as an Infantryman it was, "if i quit, if i hesitate, then people die" My time now as a public safety officer, i tell myself, "you go home! You have kids! You go home! You're partner has a family! You go home! He / She goes home! We go home! They brought the fight to us! We finish the fight! We protect those at home! WE GO HOME!"
One of my favs from you so far, John - well said. Another reason why it's difficult to identify "the most dangerous man in the room". He won't always be the biggest or look the baddest, but he's almost always the one with the biggest reasons to flip that fury switch. What's the old saying, "It's not the size of the dog in the fight - it's the size of the fight in the dog"? Rock on!
I know it sounds cheesy and nerdy , but JRR Tolkien wrote that the true hero of the Lord of the Rings was Samwise Gamgee. Sam's love for his friend Frodo , his homeland , and his beloved wife Rosie , gave him the strength to carry on in the face of insurmountable adversities and deny the power offered to him by The One Ring . True strength comes from love of something or someone beyond self . Sam had no skills at fighting or adventuring when he became a member of The Fellowship , but his courage , borne from love , allowed him to perform tasks above his training and experience .
David’s Jonathan. One of the least celebrated Bible heroes of mine
John Lovell
Hey John, I just finished teaching about him to the kids in my Sunday school class. You really should do a "bio on him.
Victor Waddell Not cheesy! Well said!
Truth! History would have repeated itself had it not been for Love.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
My worst fear is not having the courage, character demands. Knowing right is not the same as doing right.
I think that's what men of true character fear most. When tested, those with character persevere.
Yes. The fear of not rising to the occasion (and that my loved ones would come to harm as a result) is the biggest fear that I have.
Well said, John! Is there a way to link to some of your early videos that detail the poet mindset and mental preparedness?
This is my fear, I panic even holding a gun right now though
that's what I love about this channel, much much more than just a gun channel 👍
General, you're alive!
Nicolas Noisette 😂
I love this channel for people who dont think about courage and family and every other topic other than guns he has so much insight
When Audie Murphy was asked how he got the courage to jump up on a burning tank and man a .50 while a large group of Germans were shooting at him, he said "they were killing my friends and it made me mad". I wish America were still the type of place were we appreciated our hero soldiers so much that Hollywood worked on making them movie stars.
Shane K To hell with Hollywood. America isn’t dead yet and there are still enough Americans left. Keep up the fight! God Bless.
Murphy did so many things that could/should have gotten him killed in WWII. His movies, there was always something calm-in-the center-of the storm that came across as Real.
Audie was a one of a kind guy.
Well said
Dennis, I don't think that's true. No disrespect to Audie Murphy, but I rest assured there are many Audies who have rested in foreign soil since WWII and in Arlington and small town cemeteries around America, cut down attempting similar heroics, but destined to a different fate.
I did volunteer firefighting, security at a hospital, and am now a nurse.
You are absolutely right. Skill can help you feel more confident and reduce anxiety when going into a situation, but skill alone isn't enough. I have seen people with great skill lose their cool under pressure.
I love when the adrenaline starts flowing, because it's almost like time slows down. My thinking becomes so quick and concise.
Fellow nurse here and I am exactly the same way. I shine in a crisis everything slows down and I focus more.
I find myself hitting thumbs up on your videos as soon as they begin lol. Thanks for the wisdom!
But don't forget to keep your critical thinking even though or especially when you're following strong personalities. :)
I’m enlisting into the army as an 11b today needed this man 👌🏾
Josh Allison got out of the Air Force a few months ago, it was a great decision for me, and that GI forever bill that trump signed is pretty nice too, no time limit on going to school now, so many great things come from serving our country including building you up as a person
Good luck man, watch your 6
Godspeed to you Josh, and thank you for being willing to serve our wonderful country.
God bless you.
Josh Allison
God be with you man. Thank you in advance for your services...
_"Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear."_ *-Mark Twain*
•
_"Courage is being scared to death...and saddling up anyway."_ *-John Wayne*
•
_"Courage is grace under pressure."_ *-Ernest Hemingway*
Keep up the good work my friends.
If you have something/ someone to fight for. Something/ someone to live for, or die for. That courage will be there when it's needed. The last fire fight I was in this one phrase kept popping up in my head. "If I don't pull my own weight my brothers will die." It wasn't out of fear or panic. I think it was just my subconscious reminding me that this wasn't training. The stakes are as high as they're going to get. That's my half a cent's worth. Take it or leave it.
don't you hate it when you type something up that's from the heart and a day or two later you realize that you're the idiot that used the wrong weight/wait? haha
I think it's called motivation. For most of us, our personal safety and the safety of our loved ones serves as the motivation that gives us the extra push find courage and overcome fear.
130shooter1 lol
Yes. True. Amen, Love for for others can produce courage.
I would also add, that it is in the face of insurmountable odds, or odds that are at least not in your favor that the logic/analytical side of your brain says "get out of here, survive" kicks in. This is the fear, the "flight" aspect when the danger is presented. That happens to everyone, question is how long does that thought stay in your brain and cause "inaction" which in it of itself is a timer that will increase your chance of harm or death. The creative/artistic side of the brain then has to be activated. How do I solve this problem, how can I get out of this predicament, and how will I save those in need while doing so? When that is activated, training is then relied on and the brain then has a release of dopamine and the body has a shot of adrenaline and the assertive confidence that "ya, I can do this" kicks in. It's a battle between reason/logic and backbone/training. The more prepared you are for any situation, the more confidence you will have. But true courage as John said, will come in the face of fear, when no matter how much training you have, when the odds are against you, you still push forward, because there's a chance that by you doing so will help save one life, even if yours is sacrificed for doing so. This call to action comes deep from the "character" that the person already has built in him/her, and is what makes our ordinary everyday people capable of doing the extraordinary and otherwise impossible. And another reason that I have huge respect for all of our troops/men/women in service that put their lives on the line, because there's a chance that they can make a difference and save lives and make the world a better place, even if their lives are sacrificed in that process. That's the mark of true courage, not being fearless, but facing fear, and pushing through it because if you don't, worse things can happen to the ones that you love and or care about.
👍 Courage comes from fear. Fear is natural and will keep you alive BUT, you must learn to collect yourself, control it and be steady and calculate your move. Anger will get you killed.
JMO
God Bless ( us all )
Wow, how many things have happened in anger, wish I could take them back. Can see courage and anger are not the same.
Without fear, there can't be courage, because courage is the state of overcoming your fear, fighting instead of freezing, forgetting death and fight to the end, yours or your enemies.
But courage is not anger, with anger, you forget the learned, you are not there, you are behind red blanket. Anger will fool you, you are overestimating your self and you will have lost, before the fight even started.
While you surely need fear, you have to overcome, you need also a reason to overcome this fear. Yes it could be love, but it could also just be the believe in a better world or the sole will for survival.
#1 Source of courage is faith. Faith in who you belong to, what you stand for, and the belief in a higher principle over self.
The poet side needs to be as strong if not stronger than the warrior... the poet enjoys a rich ,happy ,fulfilled life... thanks brother
That something more that we fight for. Is exactly why I fallow you on RUclips. I'm not the most eloquent person on the planet. So I sometimes have trouble conveying my thoughts. But listening to you speak on the subject helps me to explain it. Thanks.
This is one of your best videos by far. I coach martial arts and particularly deal with competitive fighters. This relationship between confidence and courage is a fascinating one. I believe a fighter or a warrior can be confident through toughness or skill but courage takes something more. As you highlight character has a key role as does in my opinion fear. The age old saying there is no courage without fear is very very true. Great observation.
matrat2006 very true. The man without fear is not courageous but rather is dangerous. I have seen that be true a few times. I have seen people put a group at risk simply because they didn't have a respect for the danger the situation presented.
I too have coached and trained MMA fighters and wrestlers and one thing always remains true, without a Warrior Heart they will not succeed in tough combat sports like that. Seems like 8 out of 10 guys who walk in and say they want to be a fighter end up dropping out in less than a week. But, those two who stick with it, as rare as they are, they have a true warrior heart.
I love this channel! one of my favorite gun channel's on RUclips. I really enjoy the blend of philosophy that you add to these video's that 95% of the other gun channels don't even discuss. it's more than just the guns and skills! Keep up the fantastic work!.
Courage is not the absense of fear; it is the ability to overcome it.
I think that Courage, Character, and Selfless Service are innate, and cannot be taught! Skills yes, but the rest no. It takes a special kind of person to courageously stand up when others struggle with fear! Thanks John for another insightful, and thought provoking video! Well done, Sir, well done!
Completely agree, found my self in those words...during time i played rugby, i wasnt fastest, strongest, most skillful with the ball, but i was always one of guys who would charge into opponents lines and tackle biggest guys from their team.....
I used to get in fist fights, drunk, on the city bus. A lot. But I don't really see what either of our hobbies have to do with any of this..
'Do something i am afraid of in life to learn what i am not made of so i can fix that'
that is the best advice i think i have ever heard. i will do that. thank you. if it works out, you will hear about it. if it doesn't, you will hear about what i learned about myself. thats a win win in my book.
I just emailed our son a link to this video. He starts USAF TACP schoolhouse tomorrow. Our hope for him is that after all the training and practice and exercises and schools - when he's deployed in support of teams - he is the one you talk about, the one who keeps moving forward and gets the job done. Thank you for this and so many other pearls of wisdom.
I think vets like us have felt this. I have not before heard it spoken like this. You are " the warrior poet"! Thank you.
Currently reading the gift of fear due to your recommendation! Amazing fighter mindset book.
Thanks for putting out such amazing content.
Well said brother. Warrior poets must wake up EVERY day fully prepared to give up everything, for those who are worth sacrificing everything for.
Thanks, John. I got to meet John a year ago, in dec 2020. He’s an awesome dude and I’m so grateful for him and men like him to be here helping us grow into better men.
Great message, I’m a Sergeant in a Mental Health Unit at a maximum security prison, staff are assaulted at minimum 3 times a weak. I’ve seen new hires that are beef and potatoes boys that freeze up and take a massive beat down from a 125lbs walking lithium commercial. I think your absolutely right when it comes to face your fears. But at the end of the day for me it comes down to I can train ignorant, I can motivate lazy, I can’t fixed scared. For me it’s always been reflex and training, I don’t really remember doing the action just the outcome.
John...very well articulated!!! Not everyone has the courage to face the horrors of evil knowing that evil may win but still willing to fight evil. Carry on my friend!
Spiritual Fitness
Courage is not the absence of fear, courage is responding in spite of the fear. Strength, training, high speed gear and everything else matters, but courage is the glue that holds it all together and without courage, one is far less effective.
I have courage, as long as snakes and spiders are not involved.
Hahaha love it
I think we all have our courage stressors.
in my experience courage is the spark that allows you to be totally committed to the plan/action that utilizes the skills ....and I believe that character molded by spiritual fitness provides that spark. Great food for thought! The Poet speaks and causes thought!! Thank You!
„If you find something that scares you run towards it, because it is a great training opportunity!“ BEST advice ever!
Love that you discuss philosophy instead of just tactics and gear. Much needed. Keep up the awesome work, man.
I rarely post on RUclips vids but I had to on this one. You articulated this point fabulously. Way too many people are quick to judge others during their stressful and dynamic situations but have never TRULY been tested themselves. This is especially of true of folks online who have never served in the armed forces or LE. We can shoot on a square range or even do scenarios till our eyes bleed but till your actually faced with a moment where you know you may lose your life we should never judge others too hastily on there actions.
Thank you for the video
The words of my father, a true warrior, if the path you are on frightens you then you are probably on the right path. Thanks John
John I truly admire you. Your ideas, the way you put the videos and how passionate about being trained and capable for the needed time. Very inspiring. Thanks! Keep the good job, you are being heard.
Your message provokes introspection. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge with those of us who tune in to your channel. Because you provide a wealth of information and training. I have already adopted some of your teachings and techniques.
Strong content John. I agree entirely- Courage isnt being fearless, it is being able to act decisively in the face of fear.
Courage is doing what you know you must do even if it may cost you your life. But don't confuse courage with recklessness.
John,
RVN vet here. Discovered that courage, especially physical courage, isn't something one has all the time, it is something that has to be brought to the situation... and it can be overcome by a given situation and one's perception of it. Every time... Courage, however you define it,, is something that has to be brought to every situation, every time, and it will be different every time. I think this is why some guys, myself included, can choke at some situations but not at others. It is a very powerful and fragile mindset in some ways.
Been thinking on this question since 1970 and that is what I came up with.
LOVE is the FUEL for real courage. I totally agree about what your saying when it comes to training. In the 27 years I have been a firefighter the public often ask or remarks that they would be too afraid to do what the fire service does. From haz-mat to climbing trees to get wayward cats down(yes we do that). Pondering those words I relate it to training for the most part but in the end I realize that training just provides the structure but it’s my love for my community and fellow brothers that compels me to run to the danger when others are running from it. Money is not a factor and there is no fame involved which again leaves love.
You are correct that courage is being afraid and continuing on in spite of your fear but without love for humanity you would not face real death as calmly as we do.
I've noticed that I have taken alot of your old & newer videos, and added em to my favorites list. I can honestly say, I like your opinions & the way you think. I wish more people in the world could think & speak logically like this.
Dedication, resolve, wisdom, and principle that is prioritized higher than personal comfort. these are the wellsprings of courage.
“Can a man be brave If he is afraid”
“That is the only time he can be brave”
This quote is similar to what your saying here and it is a very important distinction. If you do not fear something then you are not brave for doing it. You can be very skilled at it and it can be dangerous but without fear there is no courage.
YOU are spot on! Courage is something that you either have or you don't... That's why I think we saw 4 of the Broward Cowards stand down in that latest school shooting. I'm not saying I would have been different, but my several years in the Army and deploying has challenged my courage and that's when I learned about myself more than I ever thought I could have! But yes, this video was spot on my friend!
You okay brother? Praying for you either way. Thank you for what you do.
John is like top 3 people I want to talk to in real life before I die. What an amazing mentality this guy has.
Great thoughts...happy you stated rage is not courage, sometimes, the control of rage is much more courageous.
Thank you John. Your words really hit home with me.
I’ve seen the same thing with several coworkers, guys that are squared away on the square range with their skills. But when we run simunitions, and force in force they freeze and/or choke. I’ve also seen coworkers who aren’t confident on the range but when the crap hits the fan they become fearless. Good video
Your only saying what some understand. You find your words very well and tactically placed. GRIT!
Courage comes from knowing what You Believe in, and what You Stand for. Warrior Poets Indeed!
Poetic but honest food for thought. Good stuff John. Appreciate you.
I find if someone will not sacrifice little things, they wont put any chips down when it gets hard either. My warrior poet friend and I read our bibles together, talk and pray before our training almost every day. But we always pray for courage in life, love for others, and boldness with the gospel. Love you brother, stay strong and God bless you.
Well said! John, the world is a better place because if men like you. I know very little about you, but the little I do know, inspires me to be a better man. -aspiring warrior poet.
Loving the content. Thanks for continuing to put out new stuff regularly, John!
Never without good words... I'd agree 100%...very good Sir John 👍
How much more REAL can it get than what you've said. Good words.
This is your best video yet.
Love the mindset videos.
Thank you John!
Not sure if I have watched one of your videos and not learned something of great value. Throughout my life I have always had someone I looked up to, admired, and had great deal of respect for. In a way I though of them as a father figure. Then I started watching your video's again. It crossed my mind that we are about the same age and maybe you are more of an older brother that I can learn from. Keep up the good work sir.
Very inspiring wisdom and words john I just want to thank you for sharing your your thoughts and perspectives in this channel, I continue to learn from your work and experience every time.
Wow.....good stuff, hits home better then many sermons of the past. Keep it coming,
I keep John as my spirit animal.
But in all seriousness. I'm with you, it's more the character of the man. It's what's in your heart when the chips are down.
I appreciate your videos. You're a great role model for the community
Courage also allows you to choose when and where...to do or not to do...choose your battles...it doesn't mean you lack courage if you walk away from or talk your way out...but knowing you can take action if it is needed is the key.
You're my favorite channel on youtube brother! Keep up the good work.
I learned something tonight in church.
I appreciate who you are, what you've done and what your doing.
Need more!
Well said, as usual. You really are well spoken, insightful, and thorough. Keep up the great work! I hope to train with you one day. I'm sure I'll learn a lot
Good chat John. The way I characterize Courage Bravery whatever you want to call it is that true courage comes from Fear. The Fear of what will/can happen if you don’t act, if you don’t keep your head, if you don’t make a move of co-mission. That fear is for what will happen to your battle buddy or your family or your country or whatever it is that you care about deeply. You have to put aside the completely natural fear of what can happen to You in that moment to serve/protect something beyond yourself. Which is really born of some kind of love. Thats where “the Poet” comes in, all great or good warriors are deep down, no matter how jaded, romantics at heart.
Also in my experience coolness counts as much if not more than skill in combat. I have seen guys that are “range Gods” completely fold or get paralyzed by the personal fear that everyone feels when the metal hits the meat. Real coolness comes from being able to compartmentalize that fear and keep your wits and do your job. Anyway those ramblings are just my opinions born from my experiences and observations.
Soldier on Troop.
just discovered your channel. you're a beautiful human being. thank you!
I was a police officer on the streets for 25 years. I was also a firearms competitor. My very large Sheriff's office told me I was the best shooter. It wasn't until my shooting review board that I realized that I could actually do the job in any situation. Training does not beat courage. I don't know how I found it. I just did what I needed to do. I can live with that. My three on duty spinal injuries, and cardiac arrest, made me retire. I will be ok on my death bed knowing I did what I could, and prevailed.
the only reason I follow your channel is because of these philosophical vid
3:40 "If you find something in life that scares you, run to it. That's a training opportunity"
“If you find something in life that scares you, run toward it.” That hit home.
This is a good video, and as a combat veteran I agree with him. There are two important points here that need to be remembered. 1. The point he is making, which is that skill at marksmanship or whatever, and physical courage are not necessarily the same thing, and that in combat, courage is the more vital of the two. 2. The former notwithstanding, skill does not magically improve because the situation is critical--actually, it degrades some. So if 300m from the kneeling is a rough shot for you on the flat range, it will tend to be borderline impossible in combat. So being skilled is critical, because those skills will not materialize by magic when they are needed.
Courage is your integrity and moral code pushing you past any fear you come across.
This has got to be the best video you have produced.
Great video John. 👍
Hey!!! There’s Steven!!!
Fit'n Fire yep , I love watching John lovell's videos ! He's amazing , and I learn so much from him ! If I was physically more able , and able financially i would love to go train with him ! I just try to soak in what I can , and then go to the range as much as possible with my wife and practice / train as often as we can ! No one ever knows enough and or can train enough , it's are responsibility and duty for those of us who carry and use firearms. And he is a fellow Christian as Myself . Enjoy your day Fit n Fire ...... 👍
a friend showed me one of ur vids and i was hooked!
Wisdom. Much needed wisdom. Thank you, sir.
A great conversation John. Thanks.
John, excellent video. Very true. I would phrase one point a little differently. Principles are a large factor in courage. Those invariant beliefs. Knowing what is worth fighting for and having that ingrained in your belief system long before the fight ever happens. It may be a thing, an ideal or a position but what your underlying principles are plays a big part in what you will courageously defend. Those who’s principles change with politics will rarely exhibit courage in a fight. God bless.
I agree, courage will appear when things are at their worst, and it will happen in a few seconds, instinctively. Yes training certainly helps to coordinate a response, but courage is what it takes to get that response to manifest itself into reality.
Not gunna lie...Wasn't the video I expected... some very good points brought up....Awesome work John...
"Courage is not the absence of fear ..but the will to go on " Always loved this quote
Another great vid, JL. Hoping to get to one (or more) of your classes as soon as possible
Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to rise up and do what needs to be done in the spite of it. That comes from the heart and the gut..
Very well said, brother!
I love the quote. Knowing what needs to be done lessens the fear of doing it. Knowledge and skill are balanced with courage.
Love and Loyalty, lead to Integrity, Equalled Courage.
At least for me.
I pray, strip me of any ego.
This is the truth that’s my favorite thing about this channel
You've sparked my intrigue making me ponder, if those who are so courageous have a confidence in Christ that they may not always outwardly express. Or have they yet to realize that's what stirs them?
I'm glad you're here John. I've appreciated all your content that you've put forth and growing wisdom.
I beleive that is true and a good way to describe it. If that is the case I'd not be that helpful in severe situations as I don't care that much about things in recent years. Be safe out there.
It’s classes like these that people forget to teach their junior guys. These are just at important as your call for fire or MOUT classes.
I've been in line work for 20 plus years and what you're saying is true in my work as well. When the ice cream turns to s**t some act out of instinct and the guys that have flapped their gums about their skills freeze.
I can't tell you how much this reverberated in me. My entire life story, spread out on a brief RUclips video by someone I never met.
Half my life ago, I dated a girl who's mother's boyfriend was bipolar, off his meds, and (to cut a long story short) was trying to kidnap his niece. I initially stood up to him, but he was a 27 yr old man staring down a scrawny 14 yr old boy. I froze as he walked around me to get to the girl. Ultimately the mother jumped on his back, I grabed the girl and ran out the house. Police took care of him shortly after that.
But ever since that moment, I told myself, NEVER. AGAIN. I refused to allow my shy and timid nature allow another person to be victimized like that in front of me. Part of the fear was doubt, as I had no idea what my body was capable of, but I grew to not care about my well being when I get into third party encounters like that. Whether I'm fully prepared or not, whether I stand a chance or not, I take the best shot I can at neutralizing a threat. It's why I work private security now. It's why I hope to join law enforcement someday. Not everyone can fight evil. It's only right that those of who are willing do so. So until the day God brings me home, I hone my skills as best I can and make it harder for people to beat me. 👍🏾👍🏾
Between my time in the military as an Infantryman it was, "if i quit, if i hesitate, then people die"
My time now as a public safety officer, i tell myself, "you go home! You have kids! You go home! You're partner has a family! You go home! He / She goes home! We go home! They brought the fight to us! We finish the fight! We protect those at home! WE GO HOME!"
I'm scared of heights...and that's one of my major reasons to get into airborne school!
Thoughtful speech, thank you for posting.
One of my favs from you so far, John - well said. Another reason why it's difficult to identify "the most dangerous man in the room". He won't always be the biggest or look the baddest, but he's almost always the one with the biggest reasons to flip that fury switch. What's the old saying, "It's not the size of the dog in the fight - it's the size of the fight in the dog"? Rock on!
True..thanks. Happy thansksgiving guys.