Are You a Hero?

When we think of heroes we think about super powers and extraordinary acts. Flying through the air, walking on water, x-ray vision, melting concrete buildings, and what have you. The comic books and movies make us imagine people who are born gifted, or well in some cases radioactive spiders help. The hero is an elusive figure who comes in times of grave danger and saves the world as per popular culture. His true identity is always hidden from the world for his own safety. No one is able to befriend him, or even approach him.

The truth is something different altogether. The difference between a hero and a villain is beautifully explained in this quote:

“The main thing that differentiates heroes from villains is a hero puts other people’s needs before their own. Villains pursue their selfish desires at other people’s expense.” - James Connor

Think about it, why does a hero need to be someone indescribable, someone inaccessible. We would never meet a comic book style hero with super powers in real life, does that mean that real life has no heroes? No one who inspires you to be better than what you are? No one who helps you when you need the help most? No one you look up to when things are becoming difficult to handle? That person you turn to in your time of need is also a hero. You just haven’t given this real life hero their due.

The mother, who puts the needs of her family before hers, is a hero. The father, who slogs through the week at work so that his family can have a better life, is a hero. The grandmother, who holds the family together with her gentle ministrations, is a hero. The elder sibling, who looks out for his younger siblings interests in school, is a hero. The lone child, who stands up to the bully in the playground, is a hero. We are surrounded by people who are valiant and honourable. Who act from courage and conviction, who are actually real life heroes, but we fail to recognize them.

Perhaps it is time that we give credit where it is due, that we opened our eyes to understand that if we put our needs behind those of others, we are actually acting in a heroic manner. That we too, can be heroes in the lives of our near and dear ones. The sacrifices we make should come from a loving heart, and should never make us feel victimized. When we give with love, we are enthusing positive energy into that relationship. However if we feel that we are being forced to give something that we are not keen on, then we are hardly being heroic. Instead we end up feeling used and abused.

Now wonder, are you a real life hero? Do you look after people whom you care for? Will you do what it takes to keep your family safe and secure? Then yes, you indeed are a hero. An unsung hero, just like the rest of us real life heroes.