Who Is Your Hero?

Who is your hero? This question often evokes a number of responses. The typical answer follows the clichéd format of “my mother”, “my father”, or that famous celebrity always seen on television. This type of knee-jerk reaction stems from the idea that a hero is someone who is universally inspirational, and flawless throughout; someone who goes above and beyond to impress those around them, while maintaining impeccable relationships. People like these are the respectable, and more importantly, highly-recognized members of society. However, there is no rulebook that justifies who a hero really is. It is simply a matter of opinion and the application (read discrimination) of “heroic” characteristics! You are not a surgeon, nor a cancer patient. You do not put out fires nor do you bring about justice to criminals. You are not a supernatural force and you can’t read minds. You are, the average, everyday human being. Do you feel small yet? The stigma segregating the inferior to the superior is transparent in my eyes. Stuck in the routine of life trying to get by, flustered and easily stressed, weak and disheveled, you are my hero. A hero is traditionally characterized by having an array of qualities: bravery, confidence, determination, endurance, dedication, perseverance, valor, sacrifice, and humility. Do these ring any bells? Is a gallant image of a superhero plastered throughout your mind as you dig deeper into the envious pit of self-deprecation in comparison? Do not fret. This seems to have been adapted as the default behavior. The plethora of all-too-positive adjectives listed above are the most common traits that come to mind when conjuring up some form of a “hero” internally. Though, despite popular belief, these traits are applicable to you, myself, and everyone alike. We are brave for rising every morning out of our safe, comfortable beds and facing the unknown day. If you filled any other creature with knowledge on the mishaps and wrongdoings that occur