What Is Being a Hero Versus Being Heroic?

As children, we all have heroes. We admire fictional heroes; Superman, Wonder Woman, Spiderman and are inspired by real life ones; Nelson Mandela and mother Teresa. These figures rouse us with their extraordinary abilities or their unwavering dedication to a cause. But what is it exactly that makes them heroes? Is it their strength, their speed, their selflessness, or something else entirely?

Take Superman, for example. He’s the guy who appears when there’s a crisis, a disaster waiting to happen, or a catastrophe unfolding. Superman swoops in, takes control of the situation, and leaves everything in a better state than it was. His heroism is defined by his physical prowess and his ability to single-handedly save the day. But is being the strongest, fastest, and best at something truly what makes someone heroic?

Now consider Nelson Mandela. Unlike Superman, Mandela’s heroism wasn’t about physical strength but about moral courage and sacrifice. He used his platform to speak for those who couldn’t, representing the voiceless and fighting for justice at great personal cost. Mandela’s actions changed society over a long period, improving lives and transforming the world. This kind of heroism doesn’t involve swooping in to save the day but rather enduring suffering and making sacrifices for a greater good.

But what about those of us who aren’t in the limelight, who don’t have superhuman abilities or a global platform? Can our actions still be heroic? I believe they can. Heroic actions don’t always have to be grand or highly visible. More often, they are found in the small, consistent acts of support and kindness we offer to those around us.

Imagine someone in a senior position within an organization, someone with experience and connections. Instead of pulling others through challenges or pushing them into the spotlight, this person chooses to walk beside them every day. They offer their time, their perseverance, and their unwavering presence. In a world full of inconsistency and change, being a constant, reliable support can be incredibly heroic. This type of heroism may never be celebrated in history books, but to the individual receiving that support, it can mean everything. It creates a safe space and a sense of security, helping them to become their own hero.

So, what is being a hero versus being heroic? It’s not just about grand gestures or dramatic rescues. True heroism can be found in the quiet, steadfast support of another person. It’s in the willingness to be there for someone, every single day, in a world that often isn’t. Let’s recognize and embody this everyday heroism in our lives, and understand that we can all be heroes in our own way.