By Julienne Charles

“Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

— Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh

In the last year I learned to redefine what it means to be a hero. It also helped refine my perspective on where I fit in this complex society by giving me an opportunity to assess my actions, values and goals. In January of 2020 our home was plagued with around the clock news outlets from every television, and phone calls from family around the world. Why? Well, my younger brother was pursuing his master’s degree at the University of Shanghai in China. Right at the heart of a pandemic that would soon change my world forever. Overwhelmed by uncertainty, I took a step back as I watch my parents do what they always do best; put on their invisible cape of heroism. Despite the soaring prices of plane tickets and advice to wait out the potential pandemic, Batman and Wonder woman were at it again. I felt like Robin as I observed and waited for the inevitable assignment of picking up my brother from JFK airport. This time however, their actions resonated differently for me. I observed how courageous, self-assured, and yet calculated their actions were. Most importantly, I realized they had the same demeanor when aiding others not just their children. It was truly an altruistic, and inspiring act. As the pandemic peaked, I noticed this behavior in many men and women who have redefined my perspective on what it means to be a hero. Traditionally, society defines a hero as a physically adept person fighting for justice. For me however, a hero is someone who possesses great bravery, who is Heuristic, and selflessness. 

In the past year I had the opportunity to reflect on and observe the people around me who possess these characteristics. Like my parents, they most certainly did not fit the mold of a stereotypical hero. They do, however, embody the core characteristics of bravery, selflessness and tactfulness as a way of life and expected nothing in return. I reflected on this as I picked up my brother from the airport. We hugged briefly, followed by a lighthearted trash talking session then proceeded to go home. As soon as we left the airport I heard, “let’s get me some McDonald’s.” I looked at him puzzled.

“They don’t have McDonald’s in China?”  

“Ye  ,but the cheese ain’t the same,” he replied. I laughed in excitement, knowing this funny little moment is all the reward my parents expected for their actions. Weeks later, family friends my brother and I are all sitting around the TV watching basketball as I braid my brother’s hair.  Then a cry “Oh my God!  Kobe Bryant died?”  

“That’s not funny, he’s my hero man!” Says one friend.

We switch to different news outlets anticipating the outlook of the plane crash in Calabasas as a rumor on social media ran rampant. We were shocked, “why him? he had done everything right.. he looked out for the community... they were going to revolutionize women’s basketball.” We all said sporadically. Once again, I thought, a non-traditional hero. Kobe Bryant did not save people from a burning building, but he helped inspire young black men such as my brother and his friends to elevate themselves. He wasn’t just a great sportsman, he was a tactful businessman, and a motivator for disenfranchised people. This was another addition to how I recognized the different forms of heroic actions of others.

As the Coronavirus pandemic hit the US, like everyone else I was confused and anxious. I thought of my friends Vanessa, Marie and others who are nurses and how honored I was to have been invited to their pinning ceremonies. I thought of them placing their hands on their hearts and reciting the Oath, “I will do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standards of my profession… and devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.” I thought about their commitment as healthcare professional to all people. I felt prideful and emotional to know these heroes as friends. I also felt thankful for the countless individuals such as retired doctors and nurses who put on their heroic cape of bravery, selflessness and tact to get back into the field while places their lives at risk for those who are desperately in need. Furthermore, I was especially thankful for my older sister, a state trooper, who spent the entire pandemic transporting prisoners to hospitals while living with her elderly mother. As everyday people selfishly stocked up on necessities and only thinking about themselves; These heroes, remained impactful and effective. They had the courage to do what’s right and remain grounded regardless of the temptation to “SOS”. This widened my perspective and allowed me to see heroes from so many different walks of life.

Five years ago, during an attempt to go vegan, I started following a YouTube channel called “Veg Village Food”. A young man films his grandmother making record number meals to feed the needy in their community.  Their channel has been a source of therapy for me, when I am at my lowest, I tune in and binge watch her make some of my favorite meals and feel satisfied knowing they are impacting the lives of millions of people physically and virtually. They are one of many unsung heroes who have inspired me this past year. 

Heroes are brave and don’t cower under pressure, they have a forward-thinking mindset and feel rewarded through servicing others. Heroes are instinctively selfless. Everything they do is with consideration and keeping the best interest of society in mind. Some think of heroes as leaders, however, many heroes are simply observers. They don’t mind being the shadow on the wall allowing others to take the lead while filling in the details. After all, “Small holes sink big ships”.  Without these unconventional heroes, most of our ships would be sinking. 

For this reason, I want to dedicate my contribution to this edition of the PPG magazine to all the heroes from different walks of life. People such as my parents, friends, and so many others who embody bravery, tactfulness and selflessness.  Those whom in the last year have helped refine my core values, and goals to commit to living a life of servitude. To those who have inspired me to service others from the heart without seeking validation and recognition for my actions. Lastly, to those who make heroism a lifestyle and a trend. 

Thank you.