Hero

The dictionary defines a hero as a person that is distinguished in courage and ability. A person that displays traits that is honorable. Many believe a hero to be someone that has done something incredible for another. Whether it is saving a person’s life or standing up for a truly just cause. I came past a story about a pilot from Indonesia named, Budi Soehardi, who founded a children’s home in one of the poorest places in Indonsia. His mission was to provide for children in need that had lost everything due to the recent civil war. He thought about the horrible conflict that many innocent refugees were in. He initially was scheduled to go on vacation from his airline duties but decided to do something of importance with his life. Soehardi took his wife and his family to Timor where he built an orphanage that started with four children and now has risen to providing 47 kids with education, food, and shelter. He was able to get donations from his friends and local business from other countries. This one man has been able to change the lives of a number of individuals of different ages, ranging from toddlers to college students. This is considered a self less act that demonstrates a true hero of courage and honor. Soehardi did not need a special power or have to wear a cape, but he needed determination and strong character. When compared to the main character from “A&P”, Sammy does not seem like much of a hero. A hero does not perform acts so that he can be noticed. The first time I read the story I believed Sammy to be a hero, because he stood up for other people and tried to protect their dignity. However, after Sammy stood up to his boss and made his decision towards quitting. He went to find the girl hoping they had witnessed his “heroic” act, but they did not and left. He then looks back into the window of the store and ponders on the mistake he has made. A true hero should not have any doubts on decisions of the past because; decisions are not made based on social status. It seems that Sammy cared more about impressing a few girls then actually standing for what is right. Therefore, reading the definition and hearing stories of individual that change the lives of others, it is hard to compare Sammy to hero “status”. Budi Soehardi did not care what his family would think about him wanting to take time away from his job to go to another country and helping refugees. In fact, his family showed their complete support and offered equal assistance. He knew that it would not be an easy task of simply getting food donated or providing shelter in a war torn country, but he did not care. This thought process is what makes heroes special, they do not care about the obstacles in their way, and they push them aside and continue to strive forward. He is truly my definition of a hero.