Heroes never go out of style

Everybody needs a hero. When I say hero I’m not necessarily speaking of a man in blue tights and a red cape, who with one call can fly around the world to save you from an oncoming train.

I’m not referring to that personality on television that always says the right thing and knows how to make the audience laugh by mastering his or her script.

When I say hero, I’m referring to a human being who has somehow made a difference in our lives.

Someone we watch or look up to. Someone we’ve patterned our lives after or adopted certain beliefs and perceptions from.

This weekend I watched extensive news coverage of national and local events honoring former Civil Rights leader Mrs. Rosa Parks.

Listening to Governor Schwarzenegger, President Bush and other leaders across the nation comment on the significance of her life, made me realize that everyone needs a hero, everyone wants to believe in something good.

A hero is simply defined as someone who has achieved some form of greatness and is considered honorable.

Heroes seem to pop up when individuals feel someone has broken a barrier or withstood the odds.

Herbert Spencer, a political writer and author said, “Hero-worship is strongest where there is least regard for human freedom.”

Mrs. Rosa Parks is a perfect example of that.

Because of the injustice towards African-Americans in the 1950s, her act of resistance has been labeled heroic. Because her action sparked a movement that resulted in change, she’s celebrated.

Who knows, in another part of the country at another time in history, the results may have not been the same.

Who are my heroes? My parents. Not because they’re perfect, but because they taught me at a young age that although they are falliable, they will never be too old to say I’m sorry.

Who are your heroes? Just like your favorite pair of jeans, they never go out of style.

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