Forget CNN, I'll Show You a Hero

Every year around Christmastime, I see good ol' Anderson Cooper on CNN talking about the prestigious "Hero of the Year" award.  And every year I suffer in silence as my mother watches the presentation show.  It's interesting, yes, but I would just rather be watching Criminal Minds.  It's not at all that I think these fine people aren't deserving of awards and recognition.  They certainly are and I recognize and appreciate that the world is a better place because of the things they have dedicated their lives to.  I thank them profusely for making the earth better for all of mankind.  And I appreciate the fact that they make me think.  Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, ages and backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures.  I struggle a little with people referring to sports figures and actors as heroes.  Are they?  They do (I am generalizing) have talent, and the ability to influence people...especially young people.  Role models, perhaps...but heroes?  Not in my book.

You see, I have been fortunate in my life to come to know people that I regard as true heroes.  They are the ones who sacrifice of themselves without blinking.  They are the ones who say, "Yes, I can do that..." regardless of what it will take to get it done.  They are the ones who walk in when everyone else walks out.  They are the ones who stand tall in the face of adversity, dig in their heels and say, "I will not lose this battle.  I WILL prevail."  They are the Cassie Richardsons of the world who, in the face of great personal loss, get back on their feet and say, "I am here to make a difference."  They are the Stacy Van Wormers of the world who see suffering and, even though they didn't cause it, say, "Come here, little one, I will help you."  They are the Rebecca Kruegers of the world who work hard every day and still say, "Stand with me!  This fight is not over and, together, we can handle this!"  They are the Lisa Drurys of the world who, under the weight of tremendous personal struggle, say, "It's ok...I'm here for you no matter what."  And they are the Barb Ulrichs of the world who look into the eyes of a homeless cat, see an old friend and say, "There you are.  I've missed you.  Come home." 

These are true heroes and I am blessed in my life to know them.  Cassie, Stacy, Becko, Lisa, Barb...thank you for being MY heroes.