Heroes, Then and Now

I made the statement that, even heroes’ need heroes. We all need to have someone to look up to. They should be someone whom we can reach up to, and emulate. They must have a standard that excites us and sets the goal post high.

In the past generations, the heroes were of a high moral code, virtuous, and had amazing courage. They often were biblical figures such as King David, King Solomon, and Samson. They made mistakes; however, they overcame these mistakes by turning to good and righteousness.

Many times, people looked up to the Judges, Senators and various politicians, and were in awe in their presence. These individuals were not perfect, but they tried to do their best. When they came to your community, it was one of the highest occasions and took prominence over everything else.

When war heroes came home, they were honored and given parades with accolades of praise. It was considered an exceptional honor to have a picture taken with these heroes, and to be associated with them, for they seemed larger than life. 

Many times it was one or both parents who sons and daughters looked up to as heroes. Sons tried to be like their fathers. Daughters tried to be like their mothers. Parents were hard working and set the standards of, truthfulness, keeping your word, respecting others, working diligently, and helping others who have needs. Where the golden rule of, love your neighbor as yourself, was taken very seriously, and passed down from generation to generation.

That was then, and what do we have for heroes now? A visit by many politicians causes one to hide their women, bury their valuables and stand guard at their house until they leave. You would sooner have a visit from Genghis Khan than certain politicians. Our younger people look to sports figures, musicians and actors for heroes; however, many leave much to be desired with a lack of virtue and moral code that has had the life drained out of it. It would seem we have lost the true meaning of virtue, honor, principles, courage, and a moral standard that breathes life into a pure heart.