Worth the Pain? Becoming an Everyday Superhero

"All gave some...and some gave all" Billy Ray Cyrus

Do the names Viola Gregg Liuzzo, Vernon Ferdinand Dahmer, Jonathan Myrick Daniels, Rev. James Reeb, Rev. Bruce Klunder, or William Lewis Moore mean anything to you? These are not household names and most aren't famous in the world's eyes. All of these are non-Black martyrs in the Civil Rights movement. I think its interesting to study the lives of individuals that gave their lives during the 1960's and especially those who chose to give their lives for a cause that did not directly affect their race. It intrigues me that they would sacrifice so much and take themselves into harms way to help uphold the right to vote and basic human equality.

Reading their short biographies made me think about how I would have responded. I hope I would have had the courage to stand with up the Black protestors and fight for basic human rights. I like to think I would have been in the midst of the cause, walking with the lines of protestors and being taken to jail with the crowds. Will I ever feel so passionate about something that I would be willing to risk my life for it?

Last weekend I watched a movie with my son called Act of Valor. It was a realistic account of the type of combats and missions conducted by Navy seals. I left the movie with a greater appreciation for the sacrifices our soldiers have made and continue to make every day. It reminded me of the police officers, firemen, and others who risk their lives to protect the public from crime, catastrophe, and chaos. I love being a teacher, but rarely do teachers give their lives in the line of duty (although it has happened at times such as Columbine). Lately I have a new appreciation for the way I live my life and the impact I have on those I directly affect. When it comes my time to die, will I be considered a hero by those I have touched with my thoughts, words, and deeds? There is so much more I could do, but I pray that fact will not stop me from doing SOMETHING!!

When the opportunities arrive for me to make a difference, I pray I will answer the call and be willing to give up everything if that is what it takes. I leave you with a poem that was read at the end of Act of Valor. May it inspire you to live a life that reminds people what being a "true" hero really means.

"When your time comes to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home."~Tecumseh