Maya Angelou: A Hero, And The Definitions Of Heroism

Maya Angelou once remarked that “a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” Diverse answers may result from the question: "what is a hero?" depending on whom one asks. I believe a hero inspires through their phenomenal precedents and benevolent behaviors while possessing qualities not ordinarily seen in our culture. Angelou aspired to convey that kindness and heroism are not mutually exclusive, but rather fit together effectively to produce the heroes held in high regard in our society today. No matter what one might admire about a certain hero-- bravery, patience, or strength-- kindness lacks not in these traits, but rather encompasses them. For why would a hero act with bravery, patience, or strength

The attribute of kindness inevitably comprises heroism because it accepts anyone and everyone, regardless of race, gender, appearance, beliefs, and even attitudes towards other human beings. Without kindness, souls permeate with prejudice and haughtiness, mannerisms that a hero cannot possess. Instead, a hero must love and serve his neighbor without regard to whom they assist. Power inhabits kindness as it can transcend all barricades but also connect people who ordinarily abide in discontinuity. Notable author, Mark Twain, believed kindness acts as a bridge, a common ground, between peoples. Twain quipped that “kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” He recognized that kindness connects us to people who reside in isolation and suffering; the people who crave a hero to show them an ounce of kindness all the more. Heroes must show kindness as it opens the doors to peace and understanding. Heroism epitomizes acting as someone relatable-- not someone without imperfections nor someone who acts holier-than-thou-- but acting as a human. Such relationships forge between people through kindness, as I have seen with my mother and all with whom she