What’s a Hero?
It’s a sad fact that today’s celebrity-worshiping society only seems to recognize famous people as heroes. Ask the average teenager to name his or her heroes and the answers will likely include the likes of Hollywood stars, pop singers, sports figures and even fictional characters from television and films. However, the many ordinary people who, through their selfless acts, have a major positive impact on others.
This website defines a hero as “one who inspires others through manners and actions; an individual who unselfishly leads through personal example and accomplishments requiring bravery, skill, determination, or other admirable qualities”.
We are particularly interested in recognizing our individual personal “everyday heroes”; the millions of genuine heroes (both male and female) who are never recognized as such. People who do their daily job, asking nothing in return, providing us with inspiration and guidance, sacrificing their own personal comfort for others, day in and day out. They persevere while lesser individuals choose the easy path. They don’t receive million dollar endorsement contracts; they labor out of love and passion for the work that they do.
Who Are Your Personal Heroes?
- A father, mother, grandparent or other family member, who made major sacrifices so that your life would be easier than theirs?
- An older brother or sister, aunt or uncle, who helped raise you and protect you?
- A teacher who gave you the courage to keep on plugging while others told you you’d never amount to anything?
- A mentor, perhaps, who took you under their wing when you were just starting out?
- A coach who brought out the best in you at a critical time in your life?
- The police officer or firefighter who risks his or her life every day so your town is safe, and so that people who earn much higher incomes are able to do so without fear of violence?
- Someone at work who took the blame for you, risking their credibility, even their career, to help you out?
- A doctor or nurse who saved the life or prevented serious illness of yourself or someone close to you at just the right time?
- The soldier who risks life and limb every waking moment, in miserable living conditions, earning a menial wage, whether in a country far away or closer to home in a support role?
- A pastor, priest, rabbi or other spiritual leader who helps you with spiritual strength?
- A spouse who’s your perfect soul mate; who sacrifices everything for you without ever being asked, without even knowing or caring if you notice the hardship he or she endures for you?
A hero can wear any type of attire, uniformed or not. They can be any size, shape, color, age, sex, or nationality. A hero can be employed, or not, in any line of work, in any town or country.