What is a Hero?

Posted by Jenn Jones on June 30, 2013

According to Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary a hero is defined as “A man of distinguished valor, intrepidity [fearless bravery in danger; undaunted courage or boldness] or enterprise in danger; as a hero in arms.” That definition, at least to me, conjures up images of great men – fearless, courageous, noble; men of character, virtue, values and principles. It stirs up something deep in the human spirit to think of heroes in that context. I think of men like George Washington, and other founding fathers who fought with bravery, courage and boldness. I think of our military; of Navy Seals such as Marcus Luttrell, Chris Kyle and many others. Men (and often times women) who pursued what was right and honorable despite the cost.

As we look at society today who do our kids hold up as heroes? NFL players, NBA players, actors and actresses, models, rappers, and other ‘musicians’ – the kind of people you read about in the gossip columns and tabloids. Many of which end up in rehab, jail or worse because of the life they choose to live. When did we stop looking up to those who lived lives of honor?

Out of curiosity, I “Googled” the definition of hero. This is the first definition that popped up: A person, typically a man, who is admired for courage or noble qualities. The chief male character in a book, play, or movie, who is typically identified with good qualities.

Pretty lame definition compared to Noah’s don’t you think? Does that definition stir anything in your heart and spirit? Not me…does it conjure images of courageous men of valor? Nor for me. The second part of the definition implies that heroes are only found in fiction – not in real life. That a hero can be good or bad – it is all relative.

When our boys are idolizing athletes who get in trouble for drugs, or other offenses or musicians who sing about partying and sex – is it any wonder that we are where we are? The media and society has determined that heroes can be whatever or whoever you want them tobe – remember, it is all relative and right and wrong are gray areas according to today’s standards.

As parents, mentors and responsible citizens we need to honor those men and women who act with courage, valor and virtue – and encourage our children to do the same. Hero is a very special designation – one that should be held in esteem. In my opinion, honoring our military as heroes is where the focus should be, not some dude who can catch a football.