09-13-2010, 09:15 AM
I had an addition to my earlier thoughts...that one trait of a true hero would be to do something for the greater good of man without expecting to be recognized for it at all. If you expect everyone to look up at you afterward and shower you with praise and attention, I think the true meaning of heroism is being lost. It reminds me of the ancient Greek heroes, whom it seemed like would put on a show every Tuesday, slaughtering some monster or moving some big rock or what have you, pretty much becoming the equivalent of modern day movie stars. If you stand around waiting to have your picture taken afterward, was your heart really in the right place to begin with?
Another thing that comes to mind is an article I read about a young man who is getting a medal of honor for running into enemy fire in Afghanistan in order to save his comrades. He survived, but when he found out they wanted to give him a special honor he felt uncomfortable, because he said anyone else in his group would have done the same thing. He didn't feel like a twist of circumstance made him deserve a medal. I think it is this humility and selflessness that gives him the definition of a true hero. When you see something that needs doing, you just do it, because it is right.
Just a thought.
Another thing that comes to mind is an article I read about a young man who is getting a medal of honor for running into enemy fire in Afghanistan in order to save his comrades. He survived, but when he found out they wanted to give him a special honor he felt uncomfortable, because he said anyone else in his group would have done the same thing. He didn't feel like a twist of circumstance made him deserve a medal. I think it is this humility and selflessness that gives him the definition of a true hero. When you see something that needs doing, you just do it, because it is right.
Just a thought.