Re: Happy Warriors are Necessary

[delta]

Below is a portion of my response to a post by Captain Black. (here is the link to his original post captainblack.reallifesuperheroes.org/2012/07/24/happy-warriors-are-necessary/ )

I wanted to share this because it sums up some of my feelings and I wanted some feedback on the writing.

Re: Happy Warriors are Necessary
I’ve never been truly comfortable self-identifying as RLSH because I have not truly earned the right to be called a hero. X-alt doesn’t quite do it either, because, even though altruistic, I’m not extreme enough. “Happy Warrior” isn’t a 100% fit, but it comes closer to my self-image.

I’ve admired the men who have gone through tough times and can still smile. When I was a teen an elderly gentleman shared a humorous piece of wisdom that I took to heart. He told me that every day that you wake up is a good day. He was bent over from age and shuffled along with aches and pains I’m only beginning to understand but he was always cheerful. How could I, full of youth’s vigor, do any less?

I agree that we need more role models that remind us that there is a difference between justice and revenge. It has been too ingrained in our national psyche that shooting first and asking questions later, both literally and figuratively, is acceptable. Likewise we need to recognize the difference between law and justice and we must do everything possible to bridge that gap.

We need to show that good guys may not always lead the pack but they don’t finish last either. Good men and woman need to stand up and remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination, sometimes more so. You do not have to trade your soul for success and success is measured by many different rulers.

[blackmage]

You've brought a lot of wisdom with your post, Delta. It was much needed.

Life beats us down, but it is that slim break of happiness which keeps us going. I think you struck a nerve with your comment because I DO miss that when it comes to the movement.

YES, I am just as guilty as the others when it comes to thoughts of vengeance and extreme actions when it comes to drug dealers, killers, and criminals... but I found that heroes who made fighting crime their primary brand and focus ultimately lose the opportunity to enjoy a smile.

The focus on fear drives away the pleasure of a healthy giggle and the glitter of youthful inspiration. As we get older we miss this and realize that the magic of youth is fleeting.

Comicbook heroes don't age. Many of the RLSH crime-fighters out there forget this point.

Good guys may not always lead the pack, as you said... but for all of us inspired by people like you... know that you DO!!!

[The Muse]

Delta, I have heard something similar from my father. Any day this side of the dirt is a good day.

There is a lack of "Good" people in the world. There are many that view themselves and others as good...but they watch things occur and never take action. They misguidedly feel because they arent actively doing bad or bad things, that makes them good.

I was asked once, what the difference between a good man and a righteous man was. The difference is that a good man ACTS. A righteous man does not act. Granted, this was in a religious discussion, but the same principle applies.

People may sit at home and tell themselves that they are a "good" person. Because it is easy to say. And when you commit no badness, it is easy to believe about yourself. A truly good person puts the welfare of others before themselves. Be it friends, family or strangers, a good person doesnt hesitate to act when there is a need...whether that need is a hearing ear, a helping hand, a comforting arm around the shoulder or a much needed meal.

Im not saying good people arent out there. But we could use a great deal more of them.