Real champions don't hear the crowd.

People watching champions assume that one of the motivations to win is the applause of the crowd. No, it's not. True champions don't notice adulation, and are so focused on their goals that they probably won't become aware of anything but their own efforts anyway. All focus is on their goal. Their prize. Years are spent getting to the point where they can try. If they fail, the weight is crushing, but they shrug it off and train harder. It's difficult to imagine the single-minded focus these champions maintain for such long periods. That's heroic by itself.

Why do we frequently idolize champions? It's easy to see why. Champions accomplish what we dream of doing, battle incredible odds, endure unbelievable pains, and wade through it all with grim determination. Watching these people perform is inspirational, as it should be. I think deep down we all want to be champions, even if it's only in the realm of paper folding. It feels good to succeed, but especially good when it's not easy. In fact, make things too easy and the reward is worthless. It's only through struggle that we bloom and grow.

True champions aren't in it for the glory, they are competing because they have a deep need to prove to themselves that they are capable and worthy. None expect to lose. All anticipate their own victory. Sure, there can only be a single victor in a contest, but that doesn't stop champions from thinking that they alone will stand at the place of honor. I think this is what we really admire in champions: their ability to enter competition with the faith that they have prepared wisely, trained vigorously, and will see their efforts lead them to win.

Champions don't hear the crowd, because their own dreams are shouting too loudly.

- M

Remembering the fallen

Today is the anniversary of the Normandy invasion, the largest amphibious assault in world history. The heroes who died that day saved the world from tyranny and untold darkness. I've seen documentaries, read biographies, and listened to testimonies of that day and it never fails to make the hairs on my neck stand up. Today was filled with heroics I cannot fathom, terror I hope I never understand, hope and vision and stubbornness and pain. I thank God for their sacrifice, and I pray it is always remembered. Today, we thank our fallen heroes.

We remember Normandy

D-Day, Omaha beach

- M

Hope and sacrifice, the legacy of heroes.

In life, there are few things as inspiring as a hero. Whatever your field of interest, there are people in it who excel to such a degree that they become idols. Nothing at all wrong with it. If the field genuinely interests you, then you will search and find people to look up to and emulate. We need heroes to push us to greater effort and raise our expectations. For instance, for years the four minute mile was considered impossible, but once one person broke it the rest of the world suddenly found within itself a whole bunch of others who could do the same. That's the power of a real hero.

Military heroes have a special place in our hearts, because they genuinely place their lives on the line. That's a big reason why we have holidays celebrating them. They aren't the only heroes, of course, there are plenty more--firefighters, police officers, emergency medical services, and the list goes on. We admire anyone willing to sacrifice themselves for others, and place it as one of life's ultimate blessings. Heroism is achievable by anyone, which makes it one of the few prizes we can all strive for no matter our ability or station in life.

The legacy of all this is that we cherish and admire anyone who goes beyond ordinary courage and treads in the rarified air of hero. I bet if the nightly news was only filled with heroic stories, that we would be a much happier place. We need to be inspired, to be pushed to greater efforts, to be reminded not to simply do the minimum but go beyond. Oddly, heroes aren't necessarily role models, since acts of heroism are usually singular moments, but we love to hear the stories and are eager to learn more about the people themselves. I can't imagine life without heroes and the world would be pitiful without them.

- M

Heroes and Villains in a modern world

Historically, heroes and villains have been stark contrasts. The good guy wears a white hat, and the bad guy wears a black one. In the past dozen years, there's been a wave of darkness over these themes, which has blurred the concepts quite a lot. The version of Batman from Christopher Nolan's movies follows Frank Miller's "Dark Knight" vision--a much grittier and world-weary Batman. But, that trend is reversing. Today's Marvel movies have crystal clear heroes, and the villains are pretty obvious. Considering how fantastically well these films are doing, financially, I'm betting audiences want that clarity again.

The great hero Odysseus confronting the sorceress Circe.

I suppose it's no surprise that people don't want their stories to be dreary and depressing all the time. Sure, it's more realistic, but wow, what a downer. Examine stories that have stood the test of time, and you'll find heroes and villains very plainly drawn. In fact, heroes tend to be paragons of virtue, and villains are scenery-chewing monsters. Good triumphs, and evil goes down in flames, yet it's a harsh struggle to survive. Despite the foregone conclusion of the outcome, the excitement is in the heroic journey and growth of determination in the hero.

So, I believe we are yearning once again for unrealistically pure heroes. Such heroes challenge us to be better than we are; braver, stronger, more willing to risk and lose. Heroes are the ultimate role models, imbued with everything we cherish and hope for in ourselves. Sure, that's unrealistic and ridiculous, but it's fiction so why not revel in audacity? We could use a few pillars of virtue in our modern stories. As much as I admire the darker Batman's realism, I wouldn't want him as a neighbor, but I'd love Odysseus (despite his scheming ways) because I know he would always protect me.

- M

Stories about games you've played with friends are the absolute best kind.

image credit

Have you ever played a game with friends, and then wind up telling stories about the game for years to come? Maybe it was a board game where everything went hilariously wrong, or a video game where you all had a marvelous time, or perhaps a hand of cards that gave commands to each player? Whatever the game, I think the best part of playing with friends is the magical stories you share later on. It's simple to resurrect all the laughter and good cheer with a few words, then share new experiences as you relate more about the game.

People love to connect, and they yearn to engage and extend those friendships. We learn to play as children, but also never quite get over the urge to cut loose and play. Fortunately there's plenty of stuff to choose from. And, like all adult toys, you can spend lots of money if you want to. Well, in my experience there aren't many adults interested in a game of tag or some dramatic keep-a-way. Adults don't like being silly, feeling stupid, or socially awkward. However ... if you'll open yourself to new opportunities, there's a world of fresh moments to share with friends.

For me, I can talk for hours about past gaming experiences--and, no, it doesn't even matter if it was only tic-tac-toe. I love reliving those times and keeping the memories alive. That's why games are so important. Games can inspire, transform, redeem, and glorify your life. Am I being poetic, sure, but I believe there's at least some truth to it. We wouldn't put so much effort into games if they weren't important. Go for it and try one out today.

- M

Batman versus the Joker ... why are they still at it?

Batman fighting the Joker has become part of American culture, even more so than Superman battling Lex Luthor. My question is, why? The Joker is a horrible person, utterly vile, completely wicked, and excruciating to be around for any length of time. Yet, the public can't get enough of Batman fighting this singular villain. So, let's examine it for a moment.

Batman versus Joker
image credit

Batman wants to redeem people, while Joker wants to corrupt people. Batman won't compromise for any reason, while Joker is seductively flexible. Batman has rules, the Joker doesn't. Batman is the yearning to overcome any obstacle, Joker is the lunacy lurking within humanity. Joker is almost literally Batman's internal darkness come to physical life, revealing what Batman would become if he lost control completely. Batman against the Joker is a modern day retelling of the story of Jekyll and Hyde.

Certainly this struggle hasn't always been depicted the same way, but it's interesting that no matter who is writing the stories, the tension between Batman and Joker remains the same. There's an inherent understanding of what drives them both. Very simply, it's hope versus despair. Sure, Batman isn't a saint, but he's a morally driven hero, struggling to do good despite the wickedness around him. That's probably why people are drawn to Batman, because his struggles are similar to our own (though amped up to superhero proportions). The Joker is chaos and vileness personified, with the single goal of corrupting any good thing he finds.

This is why I love comics so much. Like no other medium, comic books have delved into the very nature of who we are and what makes us good or bad. It's an important study. Plus, comics have given us stories that have survived the test of time.

- M

The hero always wins in the end -- the problem of invincibility

Particularly in shorter stories, there is a real issue with invincible heroes. Since most stories have a happy ending, it's unlikely the heroes will die--much less lose. Of course, the fun of a story is watching how it all plays out, rather than feeling fear and panic for the safety of characters. Of course, some stories do manage to put their cast in significant peril, yet the "main" heroes are never truly in danger--and that's because the story loses all interest to the audience, if the significant characters are removed. There was a moment in the current "The Flash" television series where they apparently killed off a major character, and I was on the edge of my seat, because I couldn't believe they actually did it ... (I won't spoil what happened, but I admit to disappointment in the decision).

When I watch a Clint Eastwood western, I know for sure that the big gunfight always ends with the hero standing victorious over the fallen villain. I don't mind. I'm there to watch a fun action film, with lots of bang bang and whoop whoops. In this sense, the only danger to the hero is a loss/delay of victory. The audience is hopefully well connected to the heroes, so even a threat to victory is enough tension to propel the story.

So, invincibility is really only one of the troubles occupying the storyteller. Examine the tensions threatening the heroes and you'll see how invincible the heroes really are. Ratchet up the stakes and the audience will still worry and fret over the safety of the heroes. As a replacement for mortal danger, it's not a bad trade-off. Or, you could slay one of the main characters and drop a depth charge in the audience's expectations. Whatever you do, do it with care. A good story deserves nothing less.

- M

To all the fathers, we celebrate you and your efforts. It wasn't all in vain...

My hero. My dad. A bit younger, when his ears where shorter...

How often do we thank our fathers? I'll be forthright and admit I am lacking in that score. My dad is my hero. He is everything I want to be in life: honest, generous, willing to help anyone, loving, caring, and bears the wisdom of the ages as a crown upon his brow. I love my dad. I'm proud of my dad. And, dad, I want to thank you for all you've done, and all you've given up for me and my brother. You are my hero, dad, and always will be.

Fathers demonstrate what it is to be a man to their boys and girls. They show how men respond to women, and what it means to "toughen up and be a man." No, it's not grunting and being abrasive and saying nothing hurts. Fathers are role models in their children's lives, and if you are a father then you know how overwhelmingly humbling that consideration becomes to you. Fathers aren't perfect, but I have a hard time believing my father isn't pretty close to the goal.

Give your father a warm hug. Tell him how much you love him. Show him you care. Let him know and don't ever allow yourself to leave the talking until it's too late. Regret is a horrible thing, so do yourself a favor and give your father a call today!

 

Happy Father's Day!

- M

Happy Memorial Day, a tribute to real-life heroes

Today, we honor the fallen.

I hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day! There's outdoor barbequing, family gatherings, talking, joking, and remembrance of fallen friends. This could easily be a bitter-sweet day, but for the most part we celebrate people who we knew and loved. I believe there's few things which draw us together more than bragging about heroes in our families and telling their stories. We desperately need heroes in our lives, even if they're no longer with us.

Nations should pause and remember those who made it great by paying the ultimate cost. We need a sense of perspective, see the value of sacrifice, and watch how greatly we honor those who willingly march into the jaws of death. Courage is what we remember most, but there's so much more to every story. Heroes aren't perfect, but they are still heroes. That's why we need holidays like Memorial Day. We're told who these people were, what they did, how they died, and the legacies left behind. It's not only military we honor, but firefighters and police officers and rescue teams and so many others.

Hopefully while we eat and enjoy the great outdoors, we take time today to learn about the heroes all around us. They deserve the honor and recognition we offer, they've earned it. I salute you all, and am grateful for the sacrifices you've given. May your family's grief be outshone by the thanks of your country mates, and the prayers of us all.

Happy Memorial Day!

- M

Animals are faithful companions but also undeniable heroes.

News stories often contain stories portraying heroic animals, mostly dogs but I've also seen cats, parrots, horses, pigs, and I wouldn't put it past a goldfish or two. Normally these stories detail fires gone bad, where the pet rescued their owners, or some other dire circumstance. But, heroism isn't restricted to tragedy. I've worked in a medical setting where pets are brought in as comfort for the patients. It's incredible to see the impact of a purring cat on someone's lap, or a gentle dog sitting beside someone. Animals can be heroes simply by being around! Incredible.



image credit

And then there are animals who bend belief to the snapping point. Dogs and cats who travel hundreds of miles to find their owners, cherished pets who remain at their dying owner's sides until help arrives. I once read a news story about a cat who dialed 911 and meowed to the operator, who somehow got an ambulance out and saved the life of the woman inside the house. It's spooky and heartwarming.

There are many reasons why people form such miraculous connections with animals, and I think the main one is because animals don't judge us. Sure, animals don't talk, but they certainly understand us. Besides, we rapidly learn to rely on each other. Our pets become part of the family, and we mourn their loss. In light of this, why is it any surprise when animals become heroes and rescue us? It seems only natural when there's such strong connections between us. That, in itself, is miraculous.

- M

Movie review: Hacksaw Ridge ... a hero who wouldn't fight

Desmond Doss was a conscientious objector during World War 2, yet he volunteered to fight without ever using a gun in combat. Even so, he won the Medal of Honor, America's highest award for valor. "Hacksaw Ridge" is his true story. The movie is set during the second part of World War 2, the war with Japan, and takes place on the island of Okinawa.

We all hope we will show courage in the face of disaster and impossible stress--such as combat, or any other death causing catastrophe--and also hope we never have to face it. Desmond Doss chose to fight in a war, but refused to touch a gun. The courage of that singular decision is vividly portrayed throughout the film, as are its consequences. He became a Medic, so he could save people rather than take lives. And, so he did. Without firing a single shot. Yes, someone unwilling to fight can still be a hero. This film will change the way you view courage, and provide hope in the pit of despair.

The actors are spot on terrific, carrying you directly into the story. There is a wonderful romance at the start, and you fall for the couple immediately. The scenes at basic training are well done and believable. But, this is a war film and so let's talk about the battle scenes. They are brutal, up close, and horrific. War is an assault on all the senses, but particularly the mind. "Hacksaw Ridge" refuses to look away, highlighting the need for medics, and captures the terror in it. Not since "Saving Private Ryan" have I seen such a portrayal. Despite this, "Hacksaw Ridge" doesn't focus on it and uses it as a backdrop for the courage of Desmond Doss. Here is a man willing to go into the jaws of Hell itself for his comrades. Without a gun. Incredible.

Do I recommend this movie? Yes, absolutely. I won't lie though, this is a brutal depiction of war. Once things get going, it lasts until nearly the end. There is no glory for the soldier on the battlefield, only survival. Children should not see this, and even teenagers may have a difficult time of it. But, this is a story which needs to be seen. Courage, faith, and deliverance are the key points in view, and it's been a long time since I've witnessed a story so powerful. Pluck up your own courage and watch it!

- M

Tribute to all the repair people out there!

Mechanics, appliance repair, HVAC, roofers, and every other type of repair occupation, I salute you all. You are there at some of our most trying times. Well, at least our most complaining times. I'm sure you hear more complaints per day than the rest of us can imagine. We are currently dealing with our air conditioner deciding against being in working order. I can't say I cried when I called in for the repair, but I practically begged them to come out today (after all, these things seem always to happen on weekends rather than conveniently during the week).

 

You all are so willing to squeeze in one more desperate customer, even when your days are already filled to overflowing. It must be a terrific juggling act. Yes, you're well paid for your efforts, but I still think a thank you is deserved. People tend to only thank once the trouble is solved. I wanted to preempt that and give thanks simply for your availability. Services occupations can be difficult, thankless, and generally disheartening. I thank you all. Without your willingness, this would be a much darker place.

 

Isn't it odd how the celebrated jobs are hardly ever service jobs? Young children want to be astronauts, firemen, Formula 1 racers, and other exciting things, but I can't say I've ever heard a kid say, "Yup, I'm going to repair air conditioners for a living!" Maybe you would if your parents did, but it's just not a glamorous profession. Perhaps that will change, but so long as entertainers and athletes capture the spotlight, I doubt it. Until then, I tip my hat to all the heroic repair crews and give my heartfelt thanks!

 

- M

Olympic Games: Risk takers look great in mud and gold in equal measure.

2016 Olympic gold medal

As the world watches the Olympics, it occurs to me how great a risk these athletes are taking. We've already seen incredible feats of daring, and shocking disasters. I'm sure people ask, "Why take the risk?" Think about this, only three people win ... 1st, 2nd, 3rd place. Everyone else loses, to varying degrees. That's a pretty crushing prospect. So, why even try, since the vast majority fail?

Because somebody will most certainly win!

 

If I'm racing, then I fully expect it'll be me. How about you?

 

So, the better question is, "Why compete at all, if you expect to lose?" It's likely that no athlete in the Olympic Games ever expected to fail, but rather expected to stand in 1st place. These are champions, each and every one, and champions demand the very best of themselves. They see themselves as absolute victors before the race ever begins. I think that's what makes watching the Olympics so exciting. We don't often see a field of champions arranged to fight for a single goal. Usually, there are a handful of champions and the rest are just playing. Champions inspire. Champions strive. Champions accomplish.

 

Yes, champions fail. Yet, failure does not define a champion. If anything, the definition of a champion is the willingness to slog through a field of mud for the opportunity to try. I'm in awe of these Olympic athletes! The sacrifices they've made, for literally years, just for a few seconds of actual competition is almost beyond belief. Courage, determination, sacrifice, pain and glory. Champions risk for the opportunity to try and catch hold of the trophy. How can anyone look on them an not wonder if we have the heart to do the same?

 

- M

Heroes create Villains? How could that be?

The new Avenger's movie ("Captain America: Civil War") had an interesting scene, where the Vision points out that the sheer strength of superheroes incites supervillains to appear. It's a curious idea, yet I think there's a lot of truth to it. Think about our own, real, world with country superpowers and the forces aligned against them. I think the Vision has a good theory. So, would eliminating superheroes get rid of all the villains? Well ... no.

The Mad Titan, Thanos wielding the Infinity Gauntlet

You see, evil will fight anyway. They do fight harder if they are opposed, but there's no stopping it. And, that brings up another point: good tends to want to banish evil, while evil wants to destroy good. One is an ongoing victory, and the other is absolute. But, crank up the power levels of the combatants, and you then have an arms race. It's obvious really. Yes, having powerful heroes does create powerful villains.

 

And, that's great for stories, since conflict is what drives them. There becomes a kind of power creep where the heroes grow stronger, so the villains compensate to threaten them again, and so on. Eventually, a point is reached where things get ridiculously powerful and the mind boggles. This is when creators pull out their world slayers and knock everyone down a few thousands notches. I expect the Marvel universe will use the upcoming "Infinity War" movies to do exactly that.

 

In the end, though, the fun of heroes and villains is what it's all about. There's a neat kind of fantasy in watching larger-than-life shenanigans going on. "Long live the fighters!"

 

- M

Yoda is awesome! But, why?

Star Wars is a great movie series. It's become a strong part of our culture. Yoda is the wise old mentor who teaches Luke the basics of being a Jedi and how to focus his talents. But, I think it's interesting that Yoda is immediately accepted as a great Jedi master. Consider, the audience knows nothing about Yoda from previous stories, and is only mentioned once by Ben Kenobi as "the Jedi master who taught me." Still, when Yoda shows up (a curiously little, frail, silly, old creature), he is instantly credible and believed. Also, he does no fighting or Jedi stuff--aside from lifting Luke's X-Wing out of the bog. He demonstrates great wisdom and patience.

 

So, why doesn't the audience question him as a great "warrior?"

 

Because Yoda shows fantastic restraint. Even when he argues with Ben that Luke is too old, Yoda is only toying and not actually upset. Great warriors show restraint.

 

Isao Machii, iaijutsu master

There is a wonderful old story about three swordsmen talking with a great master in turns. The first, a young student, is speaking and a sharp sound comes from the doorway. The student leaps up and shakily draws his sword, uncertain. Next, an experienced student is talking and the sound comes from the door. The student rolls to the side, neatly pulling his sword and coming up ready. At last, a top student is with the great master, when a noise comes from the doorway. The student rolls back, smoothly drawing his sword, and slashes an acorn in half as it drops toward him. Finally, the students ask the master, "Why didn't you react at all?" The great master looks at them calmly. "It was only an acorn."

 

- M

Shouldn't heroes be worth idolizing?

In our modern age, we've gravitated toward heroes who are like us--flawed, broken, and sometimes outright miserable. Batman and Daredevil are two of my favorite superheroes, yet they are also two of the darkest and moodiest heroes. They teach us that we can still be heroes, despite our downfalls. That's a great lesson to teach. But, I also love the Flash and Superman. In contrast, these are heroes who aren't broken and live happy lives. When I was little, I wanted to be the Flash. I looked up to the ideal of being so honest and trustworthy.

Hercules from the Disney movie

I bring this up, because I think we need more heroes we want to emulate. In ancient times, heroes were above reproach and practically gods themselves. That's a bit much, but why not try for heroes who are upright and courageous? Does every hero have to have a dark side? Captain America (in the films at least) is bringing this concept back, and I love it. Even when he was tempted, it was more about loss than a dark side. That is a hero to be copied! Wouldn't every parent be happy to see their kids with that sort of moral fiber and values? (Note: yes, I'm aware of current comics, but that story isn't finished and may not be as it first appeared.)

 

Also, heroes have villains, so it's good writing to draw a stark contrast between the two sides. In the recent "Batman v Superman" I would ask, what's the difference between the heroes and villains? They cause enormous destruction, death, and use untold violence to fit their ends. Not much difference really. Compare that to the Christopher Reeves Superman, or the campy Adam West Batman. True, they were from different days (and even the villains weren't all that vicious), yet there is a big gap between the good guys and bad guys.

 

I am constantly in search of a new hero to support. I think we are seeing a revitalization of the field, due especially to the Marvel movies. And, I hope we continue seeing heroes who value life and liberty far above force and brutality. Hope, faith, and love. Let me put a hero up for display, proudly lauding their courage and good deeds.

 

- M

The making of a hero. Origin stories.

Hero origin stories are told in a few ways: following right from the start, flashbacks, catching the last of the most important parts, and simply referred to in dialogue or commentary. The question the author must answer is, does the audience need to know? Does the audience need to see everything? What are the important parts of the origin, and what can be safely left out? The much maligned Star Wars prequels (Episodes 1-3) got me thinking a lot about this, because you can make a very strong case that Darth Vader didn't even need an origin story. Sometimes it's best to leave things in the dark, unknown and pulling mysterious strings.

 

For the audience, origin stories explain where the hero came from, what motivates them, and what fears they may have. Batman's origin story is likely the best known (possibly because it's the most believable) and explains all of those things. Usually the hero is the main character, so an origin story can be very helpful to the audience. On the other hand, it's nice just to step into a story already underway and learn little things all through, so the audience is more likely to pay attention than when it's thrown out in one shot.

 

For the author, origin stories are a time to create the suite of emotions needed to make the hero into the character desired. It's incredible how powerful emotions become when attached to a specific event in the formation of the hero. So, the question is, do you want the audience to know this all in advance or as things require explanation? Audiences do like mysteriousness, and it's fun putting together the pieces of why a hero is who they are (so long as it's not impossible). Whatever the choice, make sure your audience isn't left behind. If an origin story is needed, make absolutely sure you don't do it halfway.

 

- M

Fear. Intense. Powerful. Motivating.

One of my favorite new Doctor Who episodes is one called "Listen." There's an incredible speech about fear. The Doctor is helping out a young boy and he says fear is a superpower, because it gives you strength and speed and the will to survive. His point is that if we don't allow fear to control us, we discover it is actually a strength. Sure. Of course, we are afraid because of something awful and it's pretty hard to simply ignore that fact.

 

Look, it's Superman!

Phobias are a kind of fear, but are apparently irrational. I'm not totally in agreement ... I mean, pickles are the work of the Devil himself! And, don't get me started on evil elevators--hint: they know where you are at all times and actively hate you. Maybe fear of heights isn't bad, but isn't everyone afraid of spiders? Eight legs is too many for any creature. Millipedes? I refuse to believe they exist.

 

It's been said that courage is facing up to your fears. That's very true. Battlefields are filled with courage, as are any large stressful environments. Courage also appears when threat of humiliation and dire consequences is possible. My personal heroes are firefighters. I can hardly imagine another group of people so willing to jump into burning buildings to save someone they don't know. It's amazing to watch them work.

 

So, yes, fear is powerful, but so is courage. May your will be strong and your feet fleet.

 

- M

Superhero duels. Line them up and knock them down!

With the highly anticipated movie "Batman v Superman" coming this week, I thought it'd be fun to talk about superheroes duking it out. One thing we nerds love to talk about is: who'd win a fight? Comic fans have pitted Superman against Hulk for ages, or Batman against basically anyone, what about Sherlock Holmes versus Columbo (eh, maybe too obscure), or Star Wars versus Star Trek? It's fun to talk about the strengths and weaknesses, compare it all, and argue your point. Mostly its just for fun, but wow do some people get upset about it (sorry, but the Flash will always beat Quicksilver...)

 

Part of the fun is you get to see how good guys compare against each other, especially since normally they would never fight. Superheroes have such crazy abilities, it's all ridiculous anyway. What you really need are two viewpoints that have nothing to do with each other, and then slam them together so you can watch the fireworks. Debate is good for you, just stop short of punching each other. Then, you can swap to bad guys fighting, because they do that all the time and it's easy.

 

See how many mixups you can come up with. You can easily spend an entire evening in these mind games, and it's all good sport. It's better than playing board games, because you're coming up with new material and hopefully engaging your brain a bit. Sure, it helps if you know lots about the subject, but don't let that stop you. Some of the best debaters I know have only basic knowledge to work with and it sure doesn't stop them.

 

Just have a good time with it. Do it for the kids.

 

- M

Heroes -- what makes them so special?

My son, Peter, doing his best superhero stance

Heroes come in all sorts and kinds. Some are strong and dynamic, others are weak yet courageous. One begins a hero and the next becomes one. Despite all these differences, heroes have many common qualities. I'd put the highest quality as courage, and then a strong ethic. Heroes strive to improve life and circumstances, whereas villains break it all down. Plus, heroes have a strong conviction of the rightness of their cause (well, so do villains, but that's another story).

 

Typically, heroes are a response to bad circumstances. They're revealed by stress and terror and become greater because of it. That's why heroes are always in terrible circumstances. In the newest Star Wars film "The Force Awakens" we are shown two heroes: Finn and Rey. Both begin as unknowns to those around them, but quickly demonstrate heroics far beyond everyone else. They drive the story forward by fighting against the villain--not that others aren't doing the same thing, but heroes actually succeed (they are heroes after all).

 

You see, heroes are meant to inspire. They are tools storytellers use to examine ideas. Heroes show who we can be if we aspire to greatness; if we don't give in or give up, if we pluck up the courage to fight. Heroes teach life lessons. We cheer and applaud heroes because we hope to find the same qualities in ourselves. They're the ultimate role models in all aspects of life. Heroes define our culture, our beliefs, our standards, and our hopes. They are paragons.

 

- M