What is a Hero?
I often ask myself, 'What is a hero?'
There are many answers to that question, as there are people in the world. Some will say that heroes are our parents, teachers, firefighters, police officers, veterans, or active-duty military personnel. These roles can carry incredible responsibility and risk. But simply holding a title doesn't automatically make someone a hero.
So what does?
To me, a hero is someone who chooses action when others might hesitate. Someone who steps forward not for recognition, glory, or reward, but because it's the right thing to do. It's the firefighter who charges into a burning home to rescue a frightened child hiding under their bed. It's the officer who runs toward danger to protect people they've never met. It's the everyday person who shows up when it counts, not because they have to, but because they believe someone needs to.
As author Brandon Sanderson once wrote in his Stormlight Archive series,
"Strength does not make one capable of rule; it makes one capable of service."
That line has stayed with me, and it resonates now more than ever. These people have shown an immense strength.
I believe everyone who attended the recent 50501 protest deserves to be called a hero. Even after facing threats, intimidation, and violence from both the government and private citizens, they showed up. They raised their voices. They stood together as part of a growing movement. A movement that is tired of the fear and hate.
They acted. That's Courage.
To quote Sanderson again:
"We do so not because we seek the glory of men, but because the other options are worse... We stand here... because of who we are."
Taking action in today's climate is not easy. Fear and anger are everywhere. Anxiety is heavy. But I hope you can take a moment to recognize your courage. If you've spoken up, shown support, or even just taken the time to care, you've already taken a step forward toward the world we all want to see.
Thank you for reading. Please consider visiting the 50501 website to learn about the next scheduled protest. And if you are not ready to attend one just yet, that's okay. Even taking time to read this is an act of courage. When you are ready, we will welcome you with open arms.
Thank You for Everything You Do!
