Meaning: The quote "Courage is sometimes frail as hope is frail: a fragile shoot between two stones that grows brave toward the sun though warmth and brightness fail, striving and faith the only strength it knows." by Frances Rodman encapsulates the delicate yet resilient nature of courage and hope. Frances Rodman, an American poet, expresses the vulnerability of courage and hope through a powerful analogy, likening them to a fragile shoot growing between two stones, reaching for the sun despite adverse conditions.

In this quote, Rodman uses the imagery of a fragile shoot growing between two stones to illustrate the precarious nature of courage and hope. The stones represent obstacles, challenges, or adversities that individuals face in their lives. These obstacles can come in various forms such as fear, doubt, uncertainty, or external challenges. The fragile shoot, on the other hand, symbolizes the inner strength and determination that allows courage and hope to persist and grow, even in the face of adversity.

The mention of the shoot growing brave toward the sun despite the absence of warmth and brightness highlights the resilience of courage and hope. It signifies the ability of these virtues to thrive in the absence of immediate support or favorable conditions. Despite the lack of external encouragement or positive circumstances, courage and hope continue to strive towards the light, demonstrating an unwavering determination to overcome challenges and reach for brighter outcomes.

The phrase "striving and faith the only strength it knows" emphasizes the internal fortitude and belief that sustains courage and hope. It suggests that the true source of strength for these virtues lies within the individual, rooted in their perseverance and unwavering faith in the possibility of a better future. This resilience is not dependent on external factors but rather stems from an inner resolve and determination to press on, even in the face of adversity.

The quote by Frances Rodman serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility and strength inherent in courage and hope. It acknowledges the vulnerability of these virtues in the face of challenges while also celebrating their resilience and ability to endure. By using the analogy of the fragile shoot between two stones, Rodman beautifully captures the essence of courage and hope as tender yet tenacious forces that continue to persevere, even in the most adverse circumstances.

In summary, Frances Rodman's quote eloquently portrays the delicate yet resilient nature of courage and hope. Through the imagery of a fragile shoot growing between two stones, the quote evokes a sense of vulnerability, determination, and inner strength. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring nature of these virtues, highlighting their ability to thrive in the face of adversity and uncertainty.