“Heroes are ordinary people who make themselves extraordinary.”
― Gerard Way
Celebrating Heroism.
When was the last time you felt heroic? Or, when you felt you were near heroism? Or, perhaps found yourself celebrating heroism?
For me, it was last Sunday. On a weekend getaway to our nation’s capital, my husband and I started a walk, not really knowing where we might end up. Our hotel was beautifully located near the mall, so we headed that way. As we ambled here and there, we found ourselves at the WWII Memorial.
Initially stunned by the architecture and its brilliant position (opening to the Washington Monument), it was the engraved quotes that really drew me in. Words that exemplify the human spirit’s capacity to overcome enormous obstacles and horrendous odds.
Words that honored the women involved in this mighty conquest.
Words that honored young lads who had no idea what was ahead.
And words that speak to the unbridled capacity of the human spirit to beat odds and change the course of history…of life.
It was one of those moments in time when you feel compelled to be a better person.
I noticed my husband lingering in front of the fountain, obviously thinking hard about something.
“What’s on your mind?” I asked.
“It’s a lot to take in,” he said, in his normal gentle way.
I believe we would all agree. The freedom we share today is due, in fact, to the sacrifice of so many. In WWII alone, over 400,000 lost their lives. Sixteen million were involved, according to research. Men and women who had no idea they could do what was asked of them to do.
Veterans of WWII from Houston, TX, being honored by the Honor Flight Program.
Today, I find myself reflecting on that thought. If I was called to do something of such magnitude, would I be as heroic?
I think if we could ask anyone involved in such an experience, they wouldn’t call themselves heroes. Heroes never think they are heroic. Perhaps that the beauty in it. They simply are heroes.
Wherever you find yourself today, at a picnic, at the beach, or simply at home finishing some work around the house. Take pause.
Be heroic in your home. At your workplace. In your relationships with others. After all, a hero is simply “a person, who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.”
We can all aspire to that.
Happy 4th! Next time your in DC let me know as I’m not far from there. Loved your pictures of the memorials and your words are inspiring! I’m sharing this on my FB page:) Take care, friend!
Ginger,
I will let you know! I sure would love to spend more time with you…just wasn’t enough at Blue Ridge.
Found you through Ginger. A beautiful post. I fell in love with D.C. when my son served there for two years. Your words gave me goosebumps because they brought back familiar feelings from my time there visiting the memorials and Arlington National Cemetery. Beautifully shared.
Blessings.
Beth,
Thank you! So sorry I haven’t responded yet. There is something very special about D.C. Every time I go, I feel a surge to pray for our country…and for our leaders…and for our troops. Did any one memory stand out most to you? For me, it was standing in the WWII Memorial and reading all the profound quotes etched in the walls…words that incite passion to us today. We all have heroic capacity. I pray you continue to grow and fulfill yours! Blessings!