My little red tether is my anchor in running with my friends. A beautiful guide dog has been my tether/anchor in mobility and independence for 17 years: 1. Pantera 2. Cricket, and now my beautiful 3. Georgina (Georgie). A life of family and friends is my joy and anchor in life.

The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. CC Scott

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Heroes

Recently at a conference we were given the definition of hero as quoted by Joseph Campbell:  A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself

There are many people that have qualities that I admire and that are heroes to me.  The presenter encouraged us to bring it close to home ... those people that heroically make a difference in our lives on a daily basis.   We broke out in discussion to share our heroes.

Steve, my husband for almost 27 years is one of my heroes.  It is easy to take for granted his heroic acts of service and love for me daily.   I love biking thanks to him. He has two really nice single bikes that are rarely used.  Not because he wouldn't love to ride them, but because his wife loves to cycle which means tandem biking.   I am able to enjoy bicycling because of his willingness to be the captain.  We have a lot of fun in the journey, too.

Shannon , my friend and running guide.   She could walk out her front door and go for a run.  Instead she drives to run and be my guide.   She embraced the concept of being a guide with enthusiasm and giving that is touching.  She not only has to be aware of her surroundings but alert me to ruts in the road, overhanging branches, other people, etc.  I enjoy running thanks to her willingness to be my running partner.  We have a lot of fun in the journey.  Watch out SLC 1/2 marathon, here we come!

Cricket, my guide dog for four plus years.  Cricket wakes up willing to go and do whatever the day entails.  She has chosen to  be my eyes.  If she wasn't happy doing her work, she wouldn't  be doing it.  She thrives on giving her life to something bigger than herself.  Find the basket at the grocery store - she delights in it.  Walk safely around an obstacle - she is a happy girl.  Cross a street safely - she wags her tail.   I enjoy independence, safety, and many joyful, confident walks thanks to Cricket.  We have a lot of fun in the journey.

In my mind an additional part of the definition of a hero is someone that leaves you feeling like you brightened their day by being with them.  Something each of these three do in such a beautiful way for me.

Who is your hero today?

13 comments:

Beth and Alfie said...

Beautiful tributes!

I also love the fresh new blog header! I've been sick & off the computer so maybe you changed it a while ago? But, new to me & love it!

jennohara said...

Love it...beautiful post Becky!

Myrna R. said...

Hi Becky. I'm taking a little time to visit my friends, though I haven't resumed writing yet.

I bet you're a hero to many people.

S.DAY said...

Oh wow! Becky I feel so privileged to be your guide and I absolutely feel like it's been a blessing in MY life! Thank you so very much for this sweet post. I never imagined be a "hero" to one of my own hero's. Thank you Thank you
Love
Shannon

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S.DAY said...

Oh my gosh! Sorry for the abundance of comments! MY COMPUTER IS HAVING MEGA PROBLEMS! SORRY!!!

KDAY Racing said...

Some excellent heroes there. Proud to be friends with all of them and to share your feelings towards those special people in our lives.

DG said...

Hey Becky!
This was a great post. You are truely a hero to me. By sharing your story. You have given me hope and excitment for the future with your zest for life and your thoughtful posts. I just heart you!