Living the Life
September 2, 2008 · Filed Under
Insights
“You play the hand you’re dealt. I think the game’s worthwhile.” Christopher ReeveDustin Hoffman played the most unlikely hero in America in the film “Heroes.” He’s so unlikely that you land up in hysterics – while knowing that he’s right when he asks his bartender, “Look, if someone told you I went on a burning airplane and saved all those people, would you believe it?” Both men nod sadly. “I ain’t the type.” But who is the type? That’s what this little gem asks. What does it take to be a hero? When a youngster has been so full of pain he self-medicates himself to numb out, then stands up and takes a vow to turn his life around, and does it, that’s pretty heroic. Going down is easy. Climbing up against all odds is a lot tougher. When a little girl of thirteen cuts her legs until blood runs down them because it distracts her from the massive inner pain she’s struggling with — and then works very hard to heal herself, that kind of perseverance is heroic. If a poor kid with no family money behind him or her works at McDonald’s or the local garage and goes to school at night to get some education, wow, that’s heroic. My dearest male friend, a police officer named Tommy, was one of a family of 13 children. Tragically, his dad left the family after the 13th birth. His mom, with the help of her church, raised her brood as a single mom. Against all odds, each child got a college education. As each went into the work world, he or she began to contribute to younger brothers and sisters. Tommy wore holey – and certainly holy – socks to save money to send his family. He was totally dedicated to his siblings’ survival. Only once did Tommy speak of his father. Asked which life memory he would choose to take to eternity with him, he stood in front of Washington’s Union Station, water fountains a musical background and replied softly: “On Fridays, my father would always take me and my youngest brother for ice cream. It was always a special day. That was when my life was perfect.” If only his dad had been one of life’s heroes. Meditation for the Day
“I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Christopher Reeve
Action for the DayI have a choice. I can persevere and endure in spite of tough times and then celebrate that I am a pretty heroic person – a true winner. Or I can give up and tell myself the game isn’t worth it. But what then?
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