“Fortitude is the virtue of the martyr; it removes obstacles that withdraw the Will from following reason.” St. Thomas Aquinas

To live a life without needing fortitude would be the same as planting a seed and with no intention to water it…is there much of a point at all? St. Catherine of Siena once said “Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring”. These words echo the reality that fortitude is not merely an optional trait in our spiritual life but an essential virtue. Fortitude is the strength to persevere in faith, even when trials seem insurmountable. Fortitude is absolutely integral to our faith. It allows us to align ourselves with God’s will, trusting in His providence through every storm.

Fortitude is one of the four cardinal virtues, alongside prudence, justice, and temperance. It is not about acting without fear but courageously moving forward despite fear, trusting that God walks with us. It teaches us that true greatness requires enduring challenges for the sake of eternal union with God. Living a life of faith is not always easy and following God’s will requires us to need fortitude. While modern challenges may not be as physically extreme as some in scripture, they still demand fortitude. Remaining faithful amidst a culture opposing Christian values, enduring personal hardships, and persevering in prayer require strength. Fortitude anchors us in hope, reminding us that our struggles are opportunities for growth and deeper trust in God.

Fortitude empowers us to remain steadfast in faith, hope, and love. It empowers us to strive for greatness, to reach for God in everything, despite whether we are faced with obstacles along the way. Pope Benedict XVI said “The world offers you comfort. But you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness”. In a world that is so often full of mediocrity, let’s call upon the Lord for an increase in Fortitude so we can be steadfast in pursuing excellence, unshaken in our faith, and courageous in living out our calling to holiness. This month, as we begin to prepare for the Lenten season, reflect on the virtue of fortitude and try to practice it in small ways every day. Let’s start today, and plant the seed of fortitude in our lives.