What does it take to be a hero?
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What do you think? Heroes come from all walks of life. There have been many throughout history. From groundbreaking medical discoveries to lunar landings, we’ve been graced with many heroes.
But it’s the everyday heroes that inspire me. The woman who takes time to help an elderly man cross the street, the guy who risks his life to catch a loose dog on a busy highway, the little child who finds an injured bird and rescues her. And how about the countless stories of animals who’ve played a heroic role in saving a person’s life?
Heroic feats stop us in our tracks, remind us that we’re human, and fill us with gratitude and wonder. They can also bring tears to our eyes as in remembering the terrible events of September 11, 2001 and the many heros of that dark and never-to-be forgotten day.
What special qualities do those humans and animals possess that make them heroes? Webster’s Dictionary defines hero as — a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. Certainly a worthy definition but I believe what makes a person a hero is that rare quality called selflessness — or better stated, a genuine respect for life.
Frequently, it’s just the little things. Those acts that fall under the radar of the major news stories. A good example is a recent story about several pigeons trapped in a boarded-up public building. Passersby noticed the birds’ plight and called authorities. Their response: “We have more important things to worry about.” Not acceptable — at least to those who care. Not satisfied with such a callous reaction, a caring person removed one of the boards on a window to allow the birds to find their way to freedom. They watched as the pigeons flew to a nearby tree and waited, allowing their eyes to adjust to the light, and then finally flying away.
Of course there will be those who say that those individuals who saved the pigeons didn’t necessarily display any courage or bravery, but the fact that they cared enough to act to prevent the unnecessary and cruel deaths of living beings is a shining example of heroics.
I humbly acknowledge all who endure ridicule, inconvenience, and even danger, who jump in and intervene on behalf of another’s life, be it human or animal!
Selfless, compassionate regard for all life brings a level of meaning and purpose to our lives that other successes and personal accomplishments often fail to do.
Our mission here at Born Free USA is to make a difference for animals but in doing so, we firmly believe that we are making a difference for our whole world!
Join us! Sign up for Action Alerts. Write a letter to your elected officials about something that you are passionate about. Donate generously to our campaigns! Together we all can be heroes!
’Til next time,
Susan