What does it take to be a hero? I am in awe of those who repeatedly risk their lives for others, who stand in harm’s way without hesitation. It’s been said that when tragedy strikes, we often find out how strong we really are.
Think back to September 11, 2001. Can you remember where you were, what you doing, what you were wearing? I bet just reading the date evoked strong memories for you. I can remember exactly where I was that day, down to the smallest detail. I can clearly see the room where I stood before the television, watching in horror as the first tower fell. I remember sobbing as the second tower fell, those images forever edged in my mind.
But what I remember in the days following, were countless stories of EVERYDAY HEROES, from the first responders, police, and firefighters, to the man who led coworkers to safety. To the mom who sheltered the children in the daycare center. EVERYDAY HEROES, giving their lives.
As I woke up to the senseless tragedy in Las Vegas a few days ago, I was once again struck with awe for those who stopped in the middle of chaos to help an injured stranger. Most didn’t know the people they were helping. They didn’t stop to think about whether they shared the same values or not—they simply helped. The young man who fell on top of his girlfriend and others nearby, sheltering them from gunfire, and gave his life. The woman who led strangers across the street to safety. The man who carried injured bodies to medical personnel. EVERYDAY HEROES, giving of themselves.
What has stuck with me the most this week is the question: What would I do if I were in that same situation? If we are truly honest with ourselves, most of us would want to run away as fast as we can. Would we stop to help a complete stranger? Would we purposely put ourselves in harm’s way to save another? In this moment of reflection, I know without a doubt that I want to be known as someone who helped others along the way.
This blog is dedicated to EVERYDAY HEROES who don’t stop to think, they act. For my cousin, Jared, a firefighter who repeatedly steps in harm’s way to keep others safe. For my brother-in-law, Mark, who served his country by fueling U.S. fighter planes over enemy territory. For my father, Gordon, who daily visits local jails to bring hope to prisoners and encouragement to addicts.
You are my heroes. Thank you from the depth of my heart for your service!
Who will you honor? Using the comments below, and social media, to help me honor our EVERYDAY HEROES. Keep this going. Let goodness and kindness go viral.
Julane, this is well said. It comes from your heart. Yes, I can remember exactly where I was on 9-11. I’m sure most people who are older than 30 probably can. In the midst of horrific tragedy, it is amazing and uplifting to hear of all these everyday heroes. They didn’t stop to ask for their name, their ethnicity, their political or religious affiliation or any other personal information. They just did what I hope I would do in the middle of a terrifying situation. I’m so touched to hear these stories, just as I was to hear of the heroes in 9-11. This is America. This is what it means to be American. Thank you for your kind words about Mark too. But he wouldn’t say he was a hero. We can’t stop the evil in the world. But we can choose to love God and love others.