Who are the heroes or heroines in our lives? Just recently when I was reviewing a chapter in my book, Quest for Happiness, I asked myself that question. The chapter reflected on what would we consider to be the qualities of an ideal relationship as compared to the reality of our situation. It reminded me of my early childhood when I was first introduced to the fairy tales.
What about you? Think back in your own life growing up in your community. Who were your heroes? Who did you look up to? Isn’t it one or two of these from which you drew the qualities to base your significant relationships?
It is easy to think of the fictional ones as I did, because when we were little, we learned about Cinderella or Superman. Today, on videos and TV, young children watch them as well as others, such as Spiderman or Bakukan.
What qualities did you admire in the characters that you read about your favorite stories? Most likely these characters displayed strength, courage especially in terms of hardship or conflict, and power to overcome adverse conditions. They appealed to us because, like Cinderella, they either had a lovable, sweet nature or were capable of handling earth shattering disasters and saving the world, just like Superman.
The real heroes may seem harder to find especially in today’s world. Yet when we reflect on it, it is easier than we think. Just look around and see ordinary people doing extraordinary things. One that comes to mind is the heroism of many people in the 9/11 disaster. Even today, stories are still coming to light about the self-sacrifice of ordinary people.
What are the qualities of these people? Are they not those you possess? When crisis comes our way, do we not see the “stuff” of which we are made? Many examples of caring for others come to mind. The Mom who saves her child by lifting a heavy piano so he can breathe; the father who has to leave home to work in order to feed his family, or the older brother who comforts his little sister. We see neighbors helping their neighbors without being asked. These stories of love can be found when people value each other, want to share, and make their community a better place.
As I reflect on the question, the one person who stands out in my life is my mother. Like all of us, she wasn’t perfect, but she did her best with what she had. I inherited my love of reading from her. With Dad working outside the community, she didn’t have much of an opportunity, nor the leisure time to relax and read because of raising a large family. But she did read. I was always surrounded by books that she borrowed from the library for all of us. So much so that by the time I had reached grade five, she often remarked the I had read all the books in the children’s section. The seed that was planted so long ago to write a book is now bearing fruit. I am enjoying the experience very much.
What was her claim to fame? She loved and gave of herself to her husband and eight children. Both she and Dad supported us in whatever we set out to accomplish. A very strong woman, she was the rock in our stormy seas and kept us going with faith in her God and herself. She taught us by her example to care for each other and help others in need. She leaves behind a legacy of love for all of us.
Who are your heroes or heroines?
If you wish to learn more about relationships, keep in touch because more will be written on the subject. Quest for Happiness is slated to be published in the near future.
In the meantime, I welcome any questions or comments you may have.
Until next time,
Bride
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