This is Alberto Cassillas, a Spanish bar-owner, stopping the policemen who were about to rush into his business and beat a protester. But in addition to the protester, Cassillas had many others in his bar, including old people, women and children. They were all taking refuge from police violence. He stood in the doorway and would not let the policemen pass.

There are times when we must accept the risk of physical harm: that’s a result of the barbarity that remains in our world, and we sadly need to deal with it. Mr. Cassillas faced that risk (which doesn’t always turn out so well), because he valued human life and safety above the risk of taking blows.

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So, before going back to the mundane, remember a time when you were afraid but did what was necessary anyway. Or, imagine it. Live through the event slowly, and run the thoughts of that moment through your mind. Feel them through to the end.