Read a chapter of a Beyonders, A World Without Heroes to my kids. 

The Blind King, (Galloran) in Beyonders, A World Without Heroes, by Brandon Mull says this about heroes,

“So many misconceptions surround the notion of heroism. Far too many categorize a hero as a champion on the battlefield, a commander of legions, a master of rare talent or ability. Granted, there have been heroes who fit those descriptions. But many men of great evil as well. Heed me. A hero sacrifices for the greater good. A hero is true to his or her conscience. In short, heroism means doing the right thing regardless of the consequences. Although any person could fit that description, very few do. Choose this day to be one of them.”

Everyday, we have the choice to make a sacrifice and be a hero. Whether it is at our job, in our neighborhood, in our house, or in the community, we have that choice.

For example, Ek Sonn Chan is head of the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority in war-torn Cambodia. Thanks to his efforts, over 90% of the people of that city have safe drinking water.

In my mind, he’s a hero because he chose to do something for the greater good. How much time did he sacrifice doing something many considered impossible?

The choice to be a hero lies within us.