Barrie, J. M: Courage. V1. 20 Oct 2010
 

Sir James Matthew Barrie, 1st Baronet, OM (9 May 1860 – 19 June 1937) was a Scottish author and dramatist, best remembered today as the creator of Peter Pan

Upon his election as Lord Rector of St. Andrew's University, Sir J.M. Barrie delivered an inaugural address in which he sought to inspire the youth sitting before him. His stirring words on the subject of "courage" are just as invigorating today, more than eight decades after they appeared in book form in 1923. Barrie advised young people never to ascribe to an opponent motives meaner than your own; to know what you mean; to insist on helping; to learn how world-shaking situations arise and how they can be countered; and to doubt those who deny you the right of partnership. Charming, candid, and stimulation, Barrie's address is a rousing example of how he championed the spirit of young people. Of his daring comments, he said, "I sound to myself as if I were advocating a rebellion, though I am really asking for a larger friendship."