Super Heroes


This morning, I needed a bit of encouragement to get my day going.  So, I dressed in my favorite super hero tee:  Wonder Woman of course. Actually, its my only super hero clothing, purchased for “Super Hero Day” during Red Ribbon Week a few years ago.  Elementary schools are notorious for dress up days, and staff lead the pack when it comes to embracing the costumes.  Thus, I own this tee.

Why do we like super heroes?  I have fond memories of those childhood Saturday morning cartoons.  As a child, I was especially impressed by Aquaman.  I mean, how cool would it be if we could talk to and develop relationships with wild animals?  I personally would choose bears as my wild friends, but sea creatures are pretty awesome too.  This doesn’t answer the question though.  So, I ask again, why do we like super heroes?

I think that the idea that there is someone out there who fights for good, intervenes on our behalf (especially for the really rough times), and just exemplifies the fight against evil and negativity, gives us a sense of security.  When we think about super heroes, whether they are the fondly-recalled cartoons or the blockbuster film versions, we see and appreciate those qualities. Interestingly, we often overlook the same qualities within ourselves.

Today, as I pulled my tee off the hanger, I was struck by the thought that we are all super heroes.  Probably much better than those the entertainment industry has given to us.  Before you scoff at this idea, take a minute and consider this.  In the past week have you:  provided a listening ear; donated your money/goods/time; played with a child, grandchild, younger sibling, etc.; thrown a surprise party for a friend; smiled at a stranger as you passed them on the sidewalk; lifted something from a top shelf for a struggling shopper; allowed someone to step ahead of you in a line; provided emotional support to another; sent up a prayer for someone; Shall I go on?

All of us are super heroes.  You have probably performed one or even more of those amazing supports listed in the previous paragraph.  Chances are that you have shown your super hero side in many other ways over the past week, too.  Some of the interactions you’ve had with others that seemed minuscule to you have actually changed someone else’s life for the better, and you may never know it.  

So the next time you wake up and need a bit of encouragement to get the day started, just remember that you’re already a super hero.  Embrace the thought and take on the day with enthusiasm and (hopefully) excitement.  Face your day, ready to take on the good fight for yourself and others.  You’ve got this!

How do I know?  I know because each of you have definitely been my personal super hero at some point.  I appreciate you.  I know the others that you bless on a daily basis do as well.  Thank you!  💝

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