Wednesday; March 28

Who are our heroes?  Maybe a better question is why do we pick the heroes we pick?  Is it because they make a lot of money or because they have amassed power?  Do we like personalities because they can sing well or because they can throw a ball with pinpoint accuracy?  What makes the best heroes? 
As I thought about what makes hero material I came upon a few qualities:
1.  They need to have good moral characteristics.  It is okay to be a fan of the accomplishments of someone who has athletic or entertainment skills, but that shouldn’t make them worthy of our “following”.  Let’s find people who exemplify what is truly important.
2.  They should have proven themselves over a long period of time.  I grow weary of the trend to anoint overnight superstars.  It’s great to recognize someone’s short-term prowess, but before we elevate them to “hero” status, let’s make sure they are along for the long-term.
3.  They should be willing to use their “gifts” to help others.  People who are self-centered don’t really help anyone and shouldn’t be emulated.  Those who rise to the next level have to be willing to reach out to others in the here-and-now and must have their eyes set on leaving a lasting (positive) legacy.
4.  They have to realize who helped them get to where they are.  None of us is self-made.  For every person who has achieved fame and fortune there are many more who are just as talented.  Often the difference is that they happened to be in the right place at the right time.  Someone noticed them, someone worked hard to help them, someone mentored them and helped them to be successful. 
          It’s great to have heroes ... let’s just make sure we pick the right people to follow.  We don’t need to worship these people, but when we choose a good one they might help us get to where we hope to go.
          Think About It!

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