Recent deaths of some close personal friends and certain influential leaders have challenged me anew to ask questions about the people I greatly admire: Who do I consider as my heroes, why do I embrace them as such, and how do I best honor them? As I’ve reflected on these questions, I’ve discovered some common traits in their lives:
My heroes and heroines tend to be counter-cultural or non-conformists. Because they know who they are, what they stand for, and why they were born, they refuse to go along in order to get along. They are daring, hard working, and exceling. They sacrifice and risk their lives for causes bigger than themselves. They’re humble in their accomplishments, generous in their giving, and respectful and kind even to their adversaries.
The two words that best describe my true heroes are “silent sufferers.” They bear pain patiently, without grudge or complaint. Often, on account of their forgiving spirit, they are perceived as fools and are taken advantage of. And because they are years ahead of their time, silent sufferers also easily get misunderstood and misrepresented—until after their death.
But real heroes never die. They live on through the indelible imprints they make on our lives, influencing our major decisions and actions. Do you have your own hero or heroine? What would you say about them if called upon to deliver eulogies at their funerals? Let’s honor them by embracing their values, enlisting in their causes, emulating their examples, and continuing where they fell short or left off. “The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!” (Psalm 16:3, NLT). (Psalm 16:3).—Samuel Koranteng-Pipim
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SAMUEL KORANTENG-PIPIM,PH.D. , is a US-based Ghanaian author, inspirational speaker, leadership trainer, and an advocate for youth empowerment. He was trained in engineering and systematic theology, and has authored more than twenty books. They include his bestselling works Hope Through the Dark, Six More Chances, Healed Wounds but Ugly Scars, and Patience in the Midst of Trials and Afflictions. Dr. Pipim currently directs two Centers for Leadership Development known as EAGLES (Empowerment & Advisory Group for Leadership, Excellence, & Service) and ANANSE (African Network & Advisory for Needed Services & Excellence). www.EAGLESonline.org. He also serves as a special consultant on Bible projects for Remnant Publications. 