We become more energetic, more alert, better able to take effective action. But when stress is encountered continually, the body's reactions are more likely to be harmful than helpful to us.
College graduates, he said, are who this country must turn to for a citizenship that is tolerant but not indifferent, loyal but not bigoted, aggressive but not conceited, alert but not alarmed.
When you are on guard you must be careful and alert about something – it could be accuracy of what you see or hear, or just being aware of the dangers around you.
The saloon-keeper's dog lay in front of the door. His head was resting on his feet, and he glanced sleepily here and there with the ready watchfulness of a dog that is sometimes kicked.