Lighting the Hero Within

“Never was there a time in the history of the world when moral heroes were more needed. The world waits for such. The providence of God has commanded science to labor and prepare the way for such. For them she is laying her iron tracks, and stretching her wires, and bridging the oceans. But where are they?” [Unknown Quote]

"We see life's true worth in the luminous souls around us." (Author, "FidelityForLife blot post, 26 June 2011) 

You know what we could really use around here?  Some good old-fashioned heroism.*  On this up-and-down journey we call mortality, our loved ones need, and deserve, heroes (or heroines, as the case may be).  They deserve role models willing to shine as lights, to reflect His light with their "good works:" their kind words, their selfless service, their courage to hope and love and live.

Of course, we’re not perfect.  And the "good news" of the Gospel is that we don't have to be.  Nor can we afford to wait until we are.  Recall the story of the Jaredites.**

Imagine that we are all sailing in the “barges of mortality,” confined within the wooden walls of the veil, and thus often unable to see the greater perspective of our mortal journey.  At times we may feel as though we are buried in the depths of the sea; at other times as though we are riding the crests of the waves.  So often we may have little or no control over the sea of life through which we are called to sail, but we can control the light we give off during the voyage.  Perhaps we are imperfect, rough-hewn stones--eminently humble things, but with the potential to be touched by our Savior to reflect His light to our brothers and sisters who sail in darkness.  

The Holy Scriptures and latter-day counsel are replete with the symbolism of light for those who are converted to the principles of applied Christianity:

• “Their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word” (Alma 5:7)
• “The gospel of Jesus Christ is not a religion of mourning and gloom. The faith of our fathers is one of hope and joy. It is not a gospel of chains but a gospel of wings. To embrace it fully is to be filled with wonder and to walk with an inner fire. Our Savior proclaimed, "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (Elder Wirthlin, “The Abundant Life” [Italics added])
• “Ye are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14)
• “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

It’s easy to mistake heroism with the shallow imitations we see in today's pervasive pop-culture.  It's easy to live life under a media bushel, distracted by computer games, questionable films, low-quality TV, vapid internet indulgence, and soul-numbing, raunchy music...but it's only a life half-lived. 

As it turns out, you don't need superhuman strength to be a hero.  You don't need an iron will that never falters, a catchy soundtrack, or even a super-secret lair (though, admittedly, that would be pretty sweet).  When it comes to your spouse, your parents, your kids, your friends and your neighbors, you just need to show up.  

You just need to be there.  

Physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually--present, doing your best to reflect the light of divine love by listening, by encouraging, by serving, by sharing.  True heroes are willing, despite their imperfections, to shine anyway.   

So...as captivating as the dull flicker of this computer monitor is, don't you have some light that needs sharing elsewhere?

*And some Oreos.  Lots of 'em.

**This particular story begins in the Book of Mormon, Ether chapter 3, with one of the most beautifully humble prayers in all scripture.