A hero is an ordinary person in extraordinary circumstances who takes the opportunity to do the hard thing. Maybe Oprah had a similar definition, so my apologies for any plagiarism. Anyway, I have a short list of men and women who are my heroes today. As I grow older, I may be a bit more cynical, but I purposefully keep my list short of people I consider heroes. My heroes are our soldiers, my children, missionaries, and matriarchs of my family heritage. They all faced different circumstances, but all have proven the same fortitude and deliberate actions that cause me to celebrate their faith and courage. I would like to introduce you to one of my heroes (or “sheroes,” as Maya Angelou calls them) Jean from A Mountain Too High. Her ongoing courage and love cause me to evaluate my own life to see where I can step up in the departments of unconditional love and selflessness. Her tender, innovative ways for caring for her husband who has Alzheimer’s is nothing less than heroic. She exemplifies Christ’s love to me. She simply acts in extraordinarily loving ways to save her husband each day from his progressing illness. Please drop over and say hi to Jean today and send her some encouragement for doing a noble thing. You will be blessed by her, too.
Who are your heroes? Let’s dedicate this post to celebrating unsung heroes. Take a moment and honor someone.
The hero, in living his own life, in being true to himself; radiates a light by which others may see their own way. “– Laurence G. Boldt
annette geffert 
I too read Jean’s blog and pray for them each day. She does an amazing job of loving and caring for her husband.
My hero is my daughter Lisa. She had a daughter with Down Syndrome, Chloe is 10 now. She also has 2 little boys, one with some ADD problems. She does so much to help Chloe, most of her week is driving her to therapy and being involved in her school and with her sons too. She also is a hair stylist part time. I don’t know how she does it all and has such fun with her children too. And takes care of their house, cooks for her husband and children. She too amazes me.
I couldn’t not agree with you more when it comes to Jean. The depth of her love, dedication, compassion and true spirit of servanthood for “her man” continues to move me towards trying to be that woman for my family. She is climbing that mountain daily – even tho it seems to high for her. Jean is truly a hero in EVERY since of the word,and so very humble about it all. I just wish that we were closer to her, so that instead of across this crazy cyberspace – we could be there with her to offer more than just words. Thanks for sharing Jean with the rest of your readers, and let’s all continue to pray and offer her support as she continues this climb. love, Kathy
PS – What is your job today!?!?!
I couldn’t agree with you more about Jean. She has taught me so much about unconditional love as well. I admire her for opening up her heart and sharing it with a bunch of women out here who would give anything to find that perfect word of encouragement. This was such a nice tribute to our special friend. Thank you for this post!
My hero would have to be my sister, Vic who passed away almost 11 years ago. She was truly honored for God to be ready to take her home. Her excitement changed me forever!
Thanks for reminding me to get out of my selfishness and think about my Scripture for this week… “…to give thanks in all circumstances”. Jean does that for sure!
Love you,
Angie xoxo
Jean is indeed a hero…I read her blog often. My mother-in-law too has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Jean has such insight. She has been such an encouragement.
My sweet sister is my heroine. She’s the mother of three tough and rumble little boys. Her youngest had a massive stroke when he was six months old and almost four years later, still struggles with the use of his left side.
I admire her unfailing love, her tenacity. She is Davie’s greatest advocate, in every sense.
I love how she has raised her older boys to stand in the gap for their brother, to fight for him…she lets them fight with him too, which is so good. It’s training him up to never give in, but when all else fails, to fight!
She allows herself to grieve over what she wishes would be, but also allows herself to rejoice over what is. So, so much I could say. She is an incredible example of faithfulness and hope and I am blessed to call her sister and friend.
I’ll have to think about this for a while, I am not sure I have any heroes or sheroes other than those who are in the trenches every day spreading the Gospel through mission, working with AIDS patients, etc.
Love, Annette H
Thanks for the tribute to Jean. I found her site thru yours last year. I have to check on her every day. She is courage in the flesh and true unconditional love. My heart is breaking for her right now. It appears the week away from her may have set him back or something. I hurt for her. Beautiful words you spoke of her and oh, so true.
To me, a hero is someone who stands firm, even when it’s the unpopular thing to do…no matter which way the wind blows. Someone who’s heart is so large that they have to act. Perhaps we’ve spent too much time making heroes out of the famous,the rich, the beautiful. One of my heroes is the pastor of our church. Because our church is so large, I think it would be easy to try to walk the path of least resistance, to try and draw attention to ourselves, to stay insulated and isolated. Instead, he (and the elder board) has chosen to teach hard things from the pulpit, to say no to national media spotlight and to be a part of the community.
We were asked to hold a “town forum” at the church during the presidential race. Both candidates would be there answering questions. The church board decided not to participate because they didn’t want to jeopardize our witness in the community. (I probably would have said, “heck yeah. let’s get some attention for the church.”) There are many examples that I could give but this comment is long enough. But I agree with you. It’s time we recognize the positive in those around us and thank them for it.
love,
karen
I just went to visit Jean. Very moving.