The quest to embrace heroes is as strong as ever. But what qualifies as a hero? In today's culture is hard to know and even more challenging to quantitatively assess heroism. Such qualifications can't be constrained by a perfection clause. Yet, does excelling at contrived sporting event (e.g. a star football quarterback) qualify? Some might believe that surviving or thriving through a tough life challenge is heroic. Maybe it is. However, what most 'authentic' heroes seem to share is living out life with care and concern for others, and creation, more than self. Many politicians, social influencers, famous actors or sports stars, business leaders and even religious clergy may profess such concern, but lack authenticity. Was Jorge Mario Bergoglio a hero, perhaps? Was Luigi Nicholas Mangione a hero, probably not? Today one can find hero worshipers of Luigi, and those that condemn rather than praise the life of Jorge.  

Fame, if perceived as a leading indicator for heroism, might work against finding and having gratitude for authentic heroes. It is likely there are as many heroes today as there have always been. They may not be famously known by many. They may be almost invisible, or secret heroes. Being a selfless parent, a teacher of curiosity, a pastor who comforts others, or a steward of creation that proclaims gratitude, are some examples of heroism. Our parents are heroes. Their lives witnessed to the fact that beyond faith, their children were most important. 

One of the hardest decisions for families with pets, is how heroic should one be in trying to extend their pet's life. We recently had to make this decision for Watson (photo by Steve). He became part of the family in January 2020. Dr. Watson succeeded Sherlock Bones, and preceded The Lone Ranger (maybe a hero complex?). Watson, as an abandoned stray with pancreatitis, had an unusual temperament for such a husky. He was happy go lucky and easy going.  His steely blue eyes were counterbalanced by nose freckles and a tongue that looked like he had stolen a few licks from a licorice lollypop. Importantly, he shepherded us through C19. When health professionals and politicians were saying stay inside, but not together, and wear masks; Watson compelled us to be outside together, breathe in the fresh air, and to exercise even more.  Similarly, Watson helped transitioned us into a retirement that wasn't all about relaxation.  

Our vet, when we asked the question, 'how will we know it is time?' told us about assessing the 3 As, 'activity, appetite and attention' in Watson's life.  It was good council, but a hard decision none the less.  We are not alone in having to make hard decisions regarding a cherished pet companion. Strangely, and others may sense this too, there is more gratitude than hurt after the loss of a 5-year family member.