August 3, 2018
Images of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Iron man and other fantastic, fictional characters come to mind when we think of heroes. This is because their heavily-publicized heroism and their stories are told, given importance and magnified in the big screen.
In our real world, there are people in our communities who are rightfully seen as heroes, like the Firemen, Policemen, Paramedics and soldiers who risk their lives to help us.
Some of them really do extraordinary things such as saving a child from a burning building or rescuing a person from a hostage taker. Oftentimes, their heroism have dramatic endings that are worth an episode in a TV drama anthology or a full length movie. We look up to them and we shout their value to society.
But there are also those who do simple acts of heroism, yet, they stand for bravery, forbearance, and strength. They are our everyday heroes in our homes, communities and countries.
With the theme Everyday Heroes for the 2nd Southeast Asia Prix Jeunesse Video Festival for Children and the Youth, we have the chance to show our appreciation and gratitude to people who have performed heroic deeds - big or tiny things that have left an impact in our lives.
Examples are these heroes who are worthy of accolades…
The Power Lineman who restored your electricity after a storm that devastated your community;
The teacher who gave you a piece of encouragement that enabled you to strive harder in school;
The preachers, who inspired you;
The medical scientists who fight incurable diseases like cancer, AIDS, mental and physical disabilities;
The police officers who fight criminality to make this a better and peaceful place for you and us;
The volunteer who served the disabled veterans in the hospital;
The couple who fed the street children;
And those who go out of their way to help you cope with life’s struggles like a friend who gave up a day’s work to be with you to help take care of your sick mother in the hospital, the guy who pushed your sister’s wheelchair, and the disabled child who inspired you as he showed kindness to another disabled child.
Many more can be added to this list of everyday heroes. Quietly, and without fanfare, they have shown heroic deeds that are seldom acknowledged.
Small things done by ordinary people may seem mundane but as they serve to make your life a little lighter and brighter amidst life’s difficulties, they bring HOPE and positively influence your family, neighbors, and country in their way of living and caring.
In the case of a boy who was asked about his everyday hero, his quick response was “My dad! for he does with job with dedication, and gives his infectious smile and kindness to everyone he meets, surrounding himself with cheerful and fun-loving people, in our home and his workplace.” Indeed his dad is an everyday hero.
Our everyday heroes need our Thank Yous, and our deep love and respect. We should allow their stories to enrich our own stories and that of our countrymen. Tell their stories through your videos for the 2nd SEAPJ, and spread the message of Love, Hope and Peace in Southeast Asia.
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