Who's your hero? Today in the United States it's Memorial Day. It's the day we remember those men and women in our armed forces who gave their lives to protect our freedom and to fight for freedom for others around the world. We remember these ordinary and yet extraordinary men and women who gave so much for us. We also honor veterans and those serving today. They are heroes.
When I was a kid I liked reading comic books. Among my favorite characters were two heroes: Superman and Spiderman. Anytime there was a crisis you could count on them to show up and take care of everything. They both had distinctive costumes that hid their identity, but underneath the outfits they wore, they were just regular guys.
The heroes we honor today are the same. They are regular men and women with mothers and fathers, and sometimes spouses. They have bills to pay and sometimes they have children to raise, too. And when they are needed, they suddenly appear in uniform and offer everything they have to help those of us who need them.
That sounds a lot like a parent, doesn't it? Except for the uniform, of course. Parents have jobs and other responsibilities, but their children come first. Parents protect and serve their children and look out for their best interests. Children count on their parents to be there for them. And children often think of their parents as their heroes.
As I get ready to head out to a Memorial Day parade, I want to leave you with a couple of thoughts. First, teach your children about the heroes who have served your country. It's good for them to know about the service of others and the sacrifices made on their behalf. And second, be aware that you are your child's first hero. Your child models himself after you everyday, in the things he says and does. You are the one he knows will protect him and you are the one he counts on. Don't forget that you are a hero, too.
From my parent's heart to yours,
Joy
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Joy Goodman is a mom whose mission is to encourage parents and to celebrate joys of being a parent.
