Finding the SUPER in Super heroes.

I’m often ridiculed when I reveal that one of my favorite super hero movies is about an african american vampire that hunts and kills other vampires.  My friends and coworkers can’t make sense that I think that this was my favorite.

It’s not the hero that made an impression.  I just thought that it was an entertaining film.  It was different and exciting and my african american vampire hero had wicked ninja skills which is always a plus.

We love our super heroes because they are an escape.  They lead exciting lives.  They fly around and drive cool cars.  They shoot laser beams out of their eyes and cause s’plosions (that’s southern for explosions).  They always win the fight and always get the girl.  They live the ideal life.

But it isn’t their super powers that impresses me.  I can do without capes and masks.  My real life heroes can’t fly.  They don’t wear utility belts and cod pieces.  My heroes don’t wear disguises to hide their true identities.  On the contrary.  They’re heroes because they aren’t afraid of who they are.

My heroes are those that don’t give up when the going gets tough.  They fight through the pain because they know it’s worth it.

My heroes are those that put others first.  Selflessness is a super power.

My heroes don’t hide their beliefs.  They unashamedly follow their God with passion and loyalty. Even if that means they’ll face ridicule.  At the same time, my heroes don’t always live by the rules. They love God, not religion.

My heroes fight for those less fortunate, building wells in third world countries for people they will never meet.  Helping the impoverished in their own communities by giving their time and money. They fight against modern slavery.  They’re abolitionists.

My heroes aren’t perfect.  They have flaws.  They struggle with their own, personal demons.  But this is what makes them super.  They don’t try to go at it alone.  They share the burden.  They rely on God and their sidekicks.

My heroes aren’t super because of their good looks, their swagger or the size of their sword.  They are super because they transcend.  They rise above and take a stand.  They lead extraordinary lives because they aren’t afraid to do so.

What makes a hero super to you?