Kindness 101 with Steve Hartman: Fortitude

About this video

• Video Title: Kindness 101 with Steve Hartman: Fortitude
• Channel: CBS Evening News
• Speakers: Steve Hartman, Meryl Hartman, Emmett (cameraman), Jamar Ian Stiles, Kayla McEwen, Mark (Kayla's father), Patty (Kayla's mother), Carl Allenby, Sheila (rocket club teacher), Pete Gallego
• Duration: 00:18:27

Overview

This video from CBS Evening News' "Kindness 101" series, hosted by Steve Hartman and his daughter Meryl, focuses on the concept of fortitude. Through inspiring stories, the program illustrates how individuals can demonstrate resilience and strength in the face of obstacles and adversity.

Key takeaways

• Fortitude is the emotional strength to persevere through tough times. The video uses the analogy of a fort to explain that fortitude is an inner strength that helps people withstand challenges.
• Jamar Ian Stiles, who lost his hands and most of his arms as an infant, showcased immense fortitude by pursuing his dream of playing basketball. Despite initial rejections and the physical challenges, he became a dedicated player and an inspiration.
• Kayla McEwen, a woman with Down syndrome, demonstrated fortitude by becoming a successful lobbyist and advocate. She overcame preconceived notions and personal challenges to pursue higher education and work towards legislative change.
• Carl Allenby transformed his life by exhibiting fortitude to overcome poverty and achieve his dream of becoming a doctor. He shifted from being a master mechanic to pursuing a medical career, persevering through years of study.
• Sheila, a dedicated teacher in Presidio, Texas, exemplifies fortitude by building a successful rocketry program for underprivileged students. She persevered through immigration challenges and resource limitations to inspire her students.

The four stories from "Kindness 101" offer several key lessons that can help in developing fortitude:

• Persistence in the face of rejection: Jamar Ian Stiles' story highlights the importance of not giving up even when initially excluded or overlooked. He kept showing up and trying out, demonstrating that consistent effort can eventually lead to opportunities. This helps build fortitude because it teaches that setbacks are not permanent and that perseverance can lead to success.

• Overcoming external perceptions and internal limitations: Kayla McEwen's journey shows how to navigate and challenge societal expectations and preconceived notions about individuals with disabilities. She actively pursued her goals, proving that perceived limitations are often not real barriers. This fosters fortitude by encouraging individuals to believe in their own capabilities and to actively work towards their aspirations, regardless of what others might assume.

• Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth: Carl Allenby's transition from auto mechanic to doctor illustrates how life changes and unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling dreams. He didn't let his initial circumstances or a required biology class deter him; instead, he embraced the new direction it offered. This lesson builds fortitude by showing that even detours can lead to desired destinations and that embracing new learning experiences is crucial for personal development.

• Resilience in resource-limited environments: Sheila's work with the Presidio rocket club demonstrates how to create success and impact even with limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles. She utilized creativity and dedication to provide opportunities for her students. This contributes to fortitude by teaching that resourcefulness and a strong belief in one's mission can overcome material deficiencies and administrative obstacles.

These stories collectively emphasize that fortitude is not about the absence of challenges, but about the inner strength, persistence, and belief in oneself that allows individuals to navigate and overcome them. They show that by focusing on effort, believing in one's potential, and adapting to circumstances, one can develop the resilience needed to face adversity.