I remember when 9/11 was simply a date on the calendar. That all changed eight years ago. The seemingly insignifcant numbers have come to represent the horrifying events that took place on September 11, 2001. We now speak of them with a hushed reverence and silent tribute to the lives that were lost and prayers for those that were left behind.
However, along with the awful tragedy we also witnessed heroism, worldwide compassion and a unity that is unforgettable.
As I sit at my desk quietly remembering that day and the days that follow, my heart both aches for the losses and swells with pride as I remember the many acts of heroism during, and after the attacks by both those in uniform and ordinary citizens. The many people who in the face of shock, anger, and fear simply chose to lead, serve and do.
I pray that none of us ever have to rise to a challenge like 9/11 or any of the other horrible terrorist attacks that have taken place across the world, but we all have the opportunity to be a hero in our everyday lives.
In his book, Be the Hero, Noah Blumenthal writes:
“Everyday heroes don’t always succeed, but they consistently act on the belief that they can do something to improve their situations and those of the people around them.” (pg. 2)
While Blumenthal’s book is not at all about 9/11, his assertion that “You can choose your response to everyday events that might disappoint, furstrate or anger you – to react in a way that casts off the victim mentality and enables you to act with a hero’s resolve,” aptly describes the heroes of 9/11.
Quite simply, being a hero starts with thinking like one.
Today, is a National Day of Service and Rememberance . A day when we can choose to honor the memories of the lives lost by choosing to be an everyday hero. I believe that this is a most fitting tribute, don’t you?
Do you have any hero stories of your own to share? What does being the hero mean to you?
Karen Swim says
Joanna, your series will also play into what I have planned for next week, so thank you! 😉 The book is excellent and a very easy read. I was halfway through before I realized it. It’s written as a parable and I was so involved in the story the time just flew by. Really loads of good points to ponder and has me thinking very much about language and storytelling.
Joanna Young says
Karen, I see what you mean about us being on the same wavelength 🙂
The book sounds really good – must look it out, thank you
.-= Joanna Young´s last blog ..The Language of Possibility: Introducing a 3 Part Series =-.
Kevin E Blake says
You are very welcome.
Also I discovered this very inspirational video after I read your article this morning.
It’s a video about a pair of friends that have definitely decided to not be victims.
http://laurayoung.typepad.com/nosafedistance/2009/09/what-would-you-do-for-a-friend.html
Hope you enjoy it!
Karen Swim says
Thank you Kevin and thank you for adding those thoughts. You are so right we want to equate heroism with always having a good outcome and that is not always true. Namaste!
Kevin E Blake says
Beautiful piece Karen.
The only thing I would add is that sometimes heroes fail. But part of what makes them a hero is that they get right back up and try again.
Namaste
Kevin