While they're seldom in the limelight, everyday heroes are everywhere. No, they don't fix all that's amiss in the world. But each in their own way puts out a positive ripple and makes the world a better place. The don't pretend to be able to save all the starfish on the shore, but, as the story goes, they make a difference for this one.
Sometimes You Give - Sometimes You Receive
We all have opportunities to lend a hand. And, we all have opportunities to allow others to lend a hand to us.
There was that time when my car had become stuck in the snow on a mountain pass. Miles from the nearest help, a trucker pulled his big rig over and gave me a lift to the towing and repair shop.
And then there was the Christmas Eve when I was driving down a busy road and spotted a young woman, suitcase and child in tow. Though they were on the opposite side of the road, I went back and offered them a ride. For reasons of her own, she declined. So I reached in my purse, and handed her enough cash to elicit both shock and tears. I told her to make their Christmas a little better, and went on my way.
Yes - Heroes Are Everywhere
And they're not celebrities, or wearing tights and a cape. If you pay attention, they show up like angels in the strangest places, and are gone in an instant.
You see, my heroes are the ones that are in the game every day. They show up. They not only go the distance, they go the extra mile. LMA 2017Have you seen these ones, recently captured in the act?
But the acts of an everyday hero aren't always so spectacular. No less important in their impact and value, these acts happen in a heartbeat and scarcely anyone notices:
- The customer who pays for the less fortunate person's groceries who finds the total due is more than they have.
- The neighbor who does an occasional or regular chore for the elderly neighbor.
The song says there are angels among us. And based on my experiences of having been rescued multiple times, I'd have to agree.
The Everyday Hero Quiz
Most of us don't like to talk about the good deeds we do. (I almost didn't share the one above!) Nevertheless, it's nice to measure ourselves and see how we're doing.
Check out the Everyday Hero Quiz. We promise, we're not watching, and only you will ever decide if you want to share the results!
Brought to you by RAC
Holiday Hero Challenge
This holiday season, keep a watchful eye out for those in need. Being a bit of a hero will result in a warm glow in more than just the fireplace!
Have you had an experience you'd care to share? Tell us about it!
I'm a serial entrepreneur, with a resume that makes me look like a Jane of all trades. Pretty sure we are all reluctant Messiahs, travelling through life planting seeds where ever we can. Hopefully, most of mine have been good ones! MA from Miami University (Ohio, not Florida), BA from Cal State.
