Hi Chuck,
What a wonderful commentary.
I would like to comment on one of my personal heroes.
They are a farm family, struggling to keep their farm, while giving daily support to his parents in their last months. They are enduring negativity from other family members, yet they are continuing to do the right thing for his parents. Now that his mother has passed on, we continue to pray for and encourage them to do the right thing. To God be the glory.
Granny

Granny, I know that God is smiling when he looks at this family. It is easy to be there for others when your life is perfect but truly honorable are those who continue to serve while in the midst of a storm themselves. Their time is coming! God Bless.

1-A Wife and Mother who, after being a stay-at-home Mom, goes back to work to help support her husband's struggling business. A woman who struggles every morning to leave her two year old son at home so she can go to a job she doesn't like. A woman who prays to God every morning on the way to work (despite her struggles) and thanks him for the riches love, family, friends and life have given her. She's my Hero.

2- Those who face opposition head-on and send out a warning cry to others, knowing their actions will call unfavorable attention to themselves. Those who are still willing to endure the unavoidable and drastic consequences for the good of the whole.

3- Police Officers and Fire Fighters. Where else will you find a person who is willing to put their life on the line, willing to risk what is most precious to them to save a complete stranger?

S-

You have clarified what it means to serve others--that's what being a hero is all about. You are right on!!!

Chuck,

I could think of three personal examples in answer to your question.

1. Captain Chris Deporter [deceased] and his crew. Upon hearing the mayday of a C-130 Gunship which had taken so much gunfire that they could not make it back (loosing too much fuel), this crew flew their tanker aircraft into a "hot zone," lowered the boom of their KC-135R and literally towed the C-130 back to base. They never hesitated - and they saved the life of the crew on the gunship. This was the best crew I have ever had the priviledge of working and flying with.

2. My dad. Most people believe in not having skeletons in their closets. My dad believes in not having closets. He has always been an example of not compromising his principles.

3. My nephew. I know this may raise an eyebrow to some. I am amazed at the wisdom of children...they cut right to the chase and sometimes see life with such clarity. Unbeknownst to him, he was the one who really kept my focus right when going through two dark moments in life.

John

A leader, a mentor and the beauty of children...that is what you have shared here and it's perfect. Isn't it awesome how much we can learn from those around us? That was beautiful. Thanks for sharing!