We often think of justice as something that can only be achieved through the legal system – by following the rules, respecting rights, and punishing wrongdoers. While this is all true, there is one more ingredient that ensures success in the pursuit of justice, i.e., sheer courage.

Courage is a powerful tool when it comes to justice. When faced with injustice, most people would flee or succumb to the wrongdoer, but those with courage will stand up for what is right, regardless of the odds. Courage allows an individual to stand in the face of adversity regardless of the consequences, seek justice, and restore balance.

Courage can come in many forms. Physical courage is perhaps the most obvious, such as standing up to a bully or standing up against an oppressive government. However, mental and emotional courage is just as important. Speaking up for the rights of others, speaking out against injustice, and standing up for what you believe in despite the fear of repercussions or criticism can be just as courageous as physical acts.

Courage can also be used to bring justice in non-confrontational ways. For example, one might use courage to peacefully protest injustice or speak out against something they disagree with. It is important to remember that courage doesn’t always have to involve physical acts of bravery – it can take the form of having the strength to speak truth to power, to speak out against injustice, or to stand up for what you believe in.

Clinton Cross, in his book, My Grandfather Oliver Harlan Cross And The Ku Klux Klan, shares the unheard tale of his grandfather who lived to fight the Klan in Waco, Texas, during the second Klan’s apex of power in the State.

Cross spoke out against the Klan in Waco, Texas on June 27,1922 when the Klan was at the height of its power in Texas. Indeed, shortly after his speech on behalf of the Citizens League of McClennan County, the Klan held marches in Waco and Austin composed of thousands of masked followers. Political primaries were held shortly thereafter, and Klan candidates were swept into office in Waco and throughout the State. Although he was not at that time a politician, he was very popular and had a political future. By opposing the Klan, he risked whatever future political ambitions he might have entertained.

In retrospect, we might believe that the Klan’s ultimate demise was inevitable. That was not at all clear at that time. The Klan was not an aberrant phenomenon. It appealed to instinctive fears and cultural values that present a clear and present danger to our world today. (Read “American Psychosis” by David Corn). “America First” and “Make America Great Again” were Ku Klux Klan slogans.

It is often said that tough times can bring out the best in people and help them to become stronger. There is some truth to this idea, as facing and overcoming challenges can build up an individual’s resilience, character, and determination.

While some people may find it harder to cope with difficult circumstances and may struggle to bounce back, Harlan Cross was not such kind. You know how they say, “the world always needs a hero” in the case of Cross, this was the truth. Despite the Clan’s growing power and influence in Texas, Cross served as a role model who inspired thousands, if not millions, to hope for a better tomorrow. He was an individual who stood up for what he believed in, showed courage and bravery in the face of adversity, and worked tirelessly to serve justice.

All in All

Courage can be a powerful tool to bring justice, as it allows one to stand up for what is right and fight against the wrongdoer. It is important to remember that courage is not always about physical acts of bravery – it can also take the form of speaking up for the rights of others, speaking out against injustice, and standing up for what you believe in despite the fear of repercussions or criticism. It is this courage that can be used to bring justice, restore balance, and ensure that everyone is treated fairly and justly.

The focus of Clinton’s book, My Grandfather Oliver Harlan Cross And The Ku Klux Klan, is to enlighten and inspire people to keep the hustle going on and understand that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. The book ends with a strong message of hope and strong will that promote the idea that challenges give each of us a chance to learn and become stronger.