The True Meaning of the Word Hero By: Marcella Hill

    The word "hero" is often applied without that much thought behind the true meaning of the word. A hero is someone who puts their lives at a great risk for the greater good of others. A hero often demonstrates traits of courage and bravery without being asked to do so and doesn't expect any fame for the sake of being heroic. Stereotypical heroes in movies usually defeat the villain and save a city, but anyone can be a hero if they are brave enough to overcome big obstacles in life and put other people ahead of yourself in times of need or danger.  

    Throughout the past few months the word hero has been tossed around a dozen times in spite of the coronavirus pandemic. We have our healthcare hero's and first responders who have been working in hospitals to help give comfort to those suffering from the coronavirus. We have people testing people throughout the country for the virus. These people are all regular people with families, but they have sacrificed their lives and put themselves at high risk for the virus just to help others. They have also had to take time away from their families to ensure that their families don't get sick. These healthcare hero's have seen the worst and have been working a countless number of hours treating patients for many months now.  

    Firefighters run into burning buildings to save people, and have continued to do so despite the coronavirus pandemic. They work very long shifts and stay up for days just in case anyone needs help. By running into burning buildings firefighters put their lives at risk every single day to help people that they don't even know. Police officers are also modern day heroes. They risk their lives everyday for the safety of the people and enforcement of the law which was made to protect the people. If you ever feel like you are in danger the police are just a call away. Healthcare workers, firefighters and police officers are just a few examples of modern day heroes but there are many more unrecognized heroes in our world today. We have to show respect and gratitude towards those who put others' lives ahead of their own.