Heroism

Hello All,

I know everyone is looking forward to the holiday weekend. An opportunity to be with family. An opportunity for grilling out. The unofficial start of summer and vacations. Please sometime during this weekend, just pause – breathe deeply – and send thanks to the many men and women of the United States Military who died serving our great country. They gave their all for the freedoms we enjoy today – they served with incredible bravery – they performed incredible heroic acts.

One of my favorite definitions of heroism is that it is “a position of the heart” – “connected with humanity, guardians of their welfare, with love for God and man.” Psychologist Phillip Zimbarso states that heroism “is an activity with several parts”. “First it’s performed in the service to others in need – whether that’s a person, group, or community” (or country) – “or in defense of certain ideals. Second, it’s engaged in voluntarily, even in military contexts, as heroism remains an act that goes beyond something required by military duty. Third, a heroic act is one performed with recognition of possible risks and costs, be they to one’s physical health or personal reputation, in which the actor is willing to accept anticipated sacrifice. Finally, it is performed without external gain anticipated at the time of the act.” Or as he further states: “Simply put, then, the key to heroism is a concern for people in need – a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there is personal risk, done without expectation of reward.” Simply put, these men and women demonstrated heroism every day.

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, originating after the Civil War. “Decoration” Day because many towns and cities began to hold springtime tributes to these fallen heroes by decorating their graves. Over time this important day evolved to commemorate military personnel who died in all wars. It became an official federal holiday in 1971. There are some formal traditions that still exist. The American flag should be hung at half-staff until noon, then raised to the top of the staff. And since “2000, when the U.S. Congress passed legislation, all Americans are encouraged to pause for a National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time.”

Harry S. Truman said: “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”

And we must never forget. Heroism is a gift of and from the heart. The gift of self. We enjoy this weekend today because of their tremendous gifts.

Pause. Breathe deeply. Give thanks.

Phyl