Who's YOUR hero?

FRIDAY, JUNE 15: On Monday we shall recognize Mary Prince, a Bermudian slave, as our hero for National Heroes Day. It is my hope that all of us will take the time to learn more about her ourselves and to certainly share what we learn with our young people for she has etched a path for us all, regardless of race, colour, or creed, that should help us all live in better unity with one another. 

What is a hero, anyway? In decades past, young people were quick to identify heroes as seen on TV such as Superman, Batman and the like.

These were guys with supernatural powers who could conquer all the challenges, and everyone else’s, with great ease. People wanted to be just like them.

Then there were some who had heroes from their neighbourhoods — the football stars, the policeman, the teacher, the one who “saved the day” by performing an amazing act that made headline news.  People wanted to be like them too.

Inspiration

Our heroes were those to whom we could relate; those who gave us inspiration and a reason to dream.  We found heroes in books we read and found their stories so fascinating and captivating that we wanted the next book that would tell us more about that particular individual.

In our eyes, our heroes did no wrong. They were almost perfect. In some respects, we worshipped these people we held in such high esteem.

Many of us might argue that many young people today are perhaps looking to the wrong people to celebrate and emulate as heroes.

Are heroes of 2012 far and few between? I think not. I just believe that it takes a bit more navigating through the ills of society, which seem far more apparent than yesteryear, to find the ‘right’ hero, that’s all.

Let’s be the campaigning champions and heroes for our young people. They need us more than ever before.  

And while in no way taking away a young person’s desire to be his own unique self, let us carry ourselves in a manner that we would want our youth to model. They will, in turn, become good models for others.  Let’s model respect.

As we celebrate the life and achievement of Mary Prince on Monday, a replayed show of Generations will air from 7:30pm to 9pm.

Hear Gaynell Hayward, Chief Nursing Officer, give a powerful message to our youth about the importance of respecting themselves and how to identify and prevent sexually transmitted infections. 

In an upcoming radio show on Monday, June 25, I would like to celebrate the achievements of our youth — and call them by name.

If your son or daughter has received recognition or an award in school, in the community, in any sport, from college or university, send me the good news to [email protected].

Let’s share with the community all that our young people are doing well. They deserve to be celebrated and we don’t do enough to recognize that fact. They are our future heroes.

Shawnette Somner is the host of Generations, which airs on DeFontes’ Broadcasting Company’s MIX106 FM. 7.30pm-9pm every Monday. Call in live during the show on 295-1061.  Send comments and show ideas to [email protected].