What do you think of when you read that word?

Possibly the Ukrainian people rising up in an effort to maintain their freedom.

The young activist taking an unpopular stand for the belief he holds.

The state Senators who decided that, as a group of united women, they have the ability to create needed change.

I have thought about all of these this past week, but today it was my friend Ashlee.

Ashlee and I have worked in the afterschool world in different cities and known each other for about eight years. Today, I learned she has the autoimmune disease alopecia areata, which is when your immune system attacks your hair follicles. To encourage others to share their story during this awareness month, Ashlee posted a picture of herself without a wig or covering. I already knew she was an incredibly strong and caring person, and today she was my new definition of bravery.