Posted in Hero, Who is your Hero, tagged Anyway, Hero, HeroLife on March 22, 2023| Leave a Comment »
The question of who is a hero to us is a deeply personal and subjective one, as heroes come in many different forms and can have vastly different meanings to each of us. For some, a hero may be a famous historical figure who overcame great odds to achieve their goals. For others, it may be a parent, teacher, or friend who has had a profound impact on their lives.
Heroes can take many forms and have different meanings to each of us, tell us who is your HERO and why.
Posted in Kindness, Qualities of a Hero, tagged Anyway, Be kind anyway, Hero, HeroLife, inclusion, sportsmanship on March 21, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Lucas Lacina, a high school wrestler with cerebral palsy, pinned his opponent for the win! Both these boys are their families are heroes.
Sportsmanship and inclusion are two important aspects of being a hero in the sports world. A hero who embodies sportsmanship is someone who not only performs at a high level but also treats their opponents, teammates, and officials with respect and fairness. Inclusion is also a key component of being a sports hero as it involves creating a welcoming and accepting environment for athletes of all backgrounds and abilities.
Here are some examples of how a hero can embody sportsmanship and inclusion:
Being a hero in the sports world involves more than just winning games or setting records. It involves embodying sportsmanship and inclusion, treating others with respect and fairness, and creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. These qualities can inspire others to become heroes themselves, both on and off the field.
For your library:
”When the Game Was Ours” by Larry Bird and Earvin “Magic” Johnson: This memoir explores the rivalry between two of the greatest basketball players of all time, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. It also delves into the themes of sportsmanship, respect, and friendship, despite fierce competition
“The Art of Fielding” by Chad Harbach: This novel tells the story of a college baseball team and the relationships between its players. It explores the themes of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the pressures of competition
Number-one New York Times best-selling author John C. Maxwell believes that any setback, whether professional or personal, can be turned into a step forward when you possess the right tools to turn a loss into a gain. Drawing on nearly fifty years of leadership experience, Dr. Maxwell provides a roadmap for winning by examining the eleven elements that constitute the DNA of learners who succeed in the face of problems, failure, and losses.
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Posted in Kindness, Qualities of a Hero, tagged Anyway, Hero, HeroLife on March 20, 2023| Leave a Comment »
In a world where heroism is often associated with grand gestures and feats of strength, it’s easy to forget the power of small acts of kindness. But sometimes, it’s the smallest actions that have the biggest impact on the people around us.
Here are some examples of small acts of kindness that can make a big difference:
These small acts of kindness may seem insignificant, but they can have a ripple effect that spreads positivity and compassion throughout our communities. They also remind us that heroism is not just about big, dramatic actions, but about the everyday moments where we have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
So the next time you have the chance to perform a small act of kindness, take it. You never know how much it might mean to someone, or how it might inspire others to do the same. By embracing the power of small acts of kindness, we can all become heroes in our own way.
For your library:
Pay It Forward” by Catherine Ryan Hyde – This novel follows a young boy named Trevor who comes up with the idea of “paying it forward” by doing three good deeds for others in the hopes that they will do the same for someone else. The book is a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
“The Kindness Diaries: One Man’s Quest to Ignite Goodwill and Transform Lives Around the World” by Leon Logothetis – In this memoir, the author shares his journey around the world on a vintage motorbike, relying solely on the kindness of strangers to fuel his travels. Along the way, he discovers the transformative power of kindness and how it can bring people from all walks of life together.
“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – This bestselling novel follows a young boy named August who was born with a facial deformity as he navigates his first year of school. The book is a heartwarming story about empathy and kindness, and it encourages readers to see the good in people even when they look different.
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Posted in Uncategorized, tagged Be kind anyway, Hero, HeroLife on March 19, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, but one quality that sets the greatest heroes apart is their honesty. A hero who is honest is someone who tells the truth, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable. They are reliable, trustworthy, and always act with integrity, even when faced with challenges.
Being honest can be difficult, especially when the truth is hard to hear or has the potential to hurt others. But heroes who are honest understand that the truth is the foundation of trust, and that trust is essential in building strong relationships with others. They understand that honesty is a core value that guides their decisions and actions, and they never compromise on their principles.
One of the greatest examples of a hero who embodied honesty is Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi was a leader in the Indian independence movement and is remembered for his nonviolent civil disobedience tactics. He was honest with himself, and with others, and always acted with integrity. His commitment to honesty was reflected in his famous quote, “The truth is the most powerful weapon we have.”
In our everyday lives, we can all strive to be heroes who are honest. Whether it’s in our personal relationships, our work, or our community, being honest is essential in building trust and fostering healthy relationships. Honesty is a powerful tool that can inspire others, and being honest can help us become the best versions of ourselves.
Heroes who are honest are among the greatest role models we can look up to. They understand that honesty is the foundation of trust, and that trust is essential in building strong relationships. By embodying honesty in our own lives, we can all strive to become heroes who inspire others and make a positive impact on the world.
For your library”
“The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, Gandhi reflects on his spiritual and moral journey, his experiments with nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, and his leadership in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. The book also provides a fascinating look into Indian society and politics during Gandhi’s lifetime.
“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz – This spiritual self-help book offers four agreements that can guide people towards a more honest and authentic life. The agreements include being impeccable with your word, not taking things personally, not making assumptions, and always doing your best.
Liar, Liar: The Theory, Practice, and Destructive Properties of Deception” by Gary Paulsen. This book is a collection of humorous short stories about the consequences of lying and the benefits of honesty.
In one story, a boy named Kevin tells a lie that gets out of control, leading to a chaotic series of events that he struggles to keep up with. In another story, a man gets a job as a lie detector operator, only to discover that the job is more difficult than he anticipated.
Throughout the book, Paulsen uses humor to highlight the absurdity of lying and the value of honesty. The stories are told in a lighthearted and entertaining way, making this a great read for anyone looking for a funny take on the importance of being truthful.
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Posted in Uncategorized, tagged Anyway, Hero, HeroLife on March 18, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Compassion is a powerful tool that can be used to make a positive impact on the world around us. Whether it’s helping someone in need or simply showing kindness to those around us, being a compassionate hero is a noble and rewarding pursuit.
Compassion starts with empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. When we put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and see the world from their perspective, we are better able to connect with them and understand their needs.
Once we have empathy, we can take action to help those in need. This might mean donating to a charity, volunteering at a local shelter, or simply being kind to someone who is having a tough day. Every act of compassion, no matter how small, can make a difference.
But being a compassionate hero isn’t just about helping others. It’s also about taking care of ourselves. When we are kind to ourselves and practice self-compassion, we are better able to show up for others and make a positive impact in the world.
Here are some tips for cultivating compassion in your own life:
By cultivating compassion in our own lives, we can become heroes to those around us. We can make a positive impact on the world and help create a more compassionate and loving society. So let’s start today, and see where our acts of kindness can take us.
For your library:
“The Book of Joy” by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu – In this book, two spiritual leaders discuss their ideas about what it means to live a joyful and compassionate life. The book offers practical advice for cultivating compassion in everyday life.
“The Art of Happiness” by Dalai Lama – This book is a guide to cultivating happiness and compassion in life. The Dalai Lama shares his insights and wisdom on how to live a compassionate life, and offers practical tips for overcoming negative emotions and cultivating positive ones.
“The Power of Kindness: The Unexpected Benefits of Leading a Compassionate Life” by Piero Ferrucci – In this book, Ferrucci explores the benefits of living a compassionate life. He argues that compassion can bring about positive changes in both our personal and professional lives, and provides practical guidance on how to cultivate compassion in ourselves and others.
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Posted in Qualities of a Hero, tagged Anyway, Hero on March 17, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Being a determined hero is about having a clear vision and the resilience to achieve your goals. It’s about overcoming obstacles and setbacks, staying focused on your mission, and never giving up. A determined hero is someone who believes in themselves, even when others doubt them, and who keeps pushing forward, no matter how difficult the journey.
One of the most inspiring examples of a determined hero is Nelson Mandela. Mandela spent 27 years in prison for fighting against apartheid in South Africa. During his imprisonment, he was subjected to inhumane conditions and faced countless challenges. However, he remained determined to fight for his beliefs and the rights of his fellow South Africans.
After his release from prison, Mandela continued his fight for justice and equality, leading South Africa toward a peaceful transition from apartheid to a democratic society. Mandela’s determination, vision, and resilience inspired people around the world and earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
A determined hero requires courage, perseverance, and a clear sense of purpose. It’s about pushing through difficult times, learning from failures, and continuing to move forward toward your goals. Whether it’s fighting for justice, working towards a better future, or pursuing your dreams, being a determined hero is about never giving up and always believing in yourself.
For your library:
“Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela: This autobiography is a powerful firsthand account of Mandela’s life, from his childhood in a rural village to his years as a political prisoner and eventual release and election as South Africa’s first black president.
“Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable” by Tim S. Grover: This book offers insights into the mindset and training techniques of some of the world’s most determined athletes, including Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dwyane Wade. Grover, who has worked as a personal trainer for these athletes, reveals the secrets to their success and offers practical advice for anyone looking to achieve their goals.
“Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage” by Alfred Lansing: This book tells the gripping story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew, who became stranded in Antarctica after their ship was crushed by ice in 1915. Despite facing harsh weather, limited supplies, and other challenges, Shackleton remained determined to bring his crew home safely and became an inspiration to people around the world.
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Posted in Qualities of a Hero, tagged Be kind anyway, Hero on March 15, 2023| Leave a Comment »
There was a young woman named Maya who lived in a small village on the outskirts of a big city. Despite facing many challenges in her life, Maya remained determined and never gave up on her dreams.
Maya was born with a physical disability that made it difficult for her to walk. Despite this, she never let her disability hold her back. She was determined to prove that she could live a full and happy life, just like everyone else.
Maya had a passion for education and wanted to become a teacher. But in her village, there were no schools for children with disabilities, and most people believed that disabled individuals were not capable of receiving an education.
Undeterred, Maya set out to change people’s perceptions. She started by teaching a few children in her village, using whatever resources she had available. Her dedication and hard work paid off, and soon parents in the village began to see the value of education for their disabled children.
Maya’s determination inspired others to join her cause. Together, they raised funds to build a school for disabled children in the village. Maya became the first teacher at the school, and she worked tirelessly to create a safe and nurturing environment for her students.
Word of Maya’s work spread, and soon people from neighboring villages began to take notice. Maya’s efforts had inspired a movement, and schools for disabled children began to pop up in villages all over the region.
Maya’s story became an inspiration to many. Her determination and perseverance showed that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. She proved that disabilities are not limitations and that every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, deserves the opportunity to receive an education.
Maya’s legacy lives on today. The schools she helped to create continue to provide education and hope to disabled children in the region. Maya may have started out as an ordinary person, but her actions and her determination made her a true hero and an inspiration to us all.
For your library:
“Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson: This biography of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs tells the story of a man who revolutionized the technology industry. Despite facing numerous setbacks and failures, Jobs remained determined and inspired those around him to achieve their best.
“Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand: This book tells the true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner who became a prisoner of war during World War II. Despite facing unimaginable horrors, Zamperini remained resilient and determined to survive. His story is a testament to the power of the human spirit.
“No Better Friend” is a true story about the friendship between Frank Williams, a radarman in the Royal Air Force, and Judy, a purebred pointer, during World War II when they were both prisoners of war. As the war’s only official canine POW, Judy was fiercely loyal and protected her fellow prisoners from danger and beatings. The book not only tells their incredible story but also provides young readers with informative and engaging sidebars, maps, photographs, and a timeline of key World War II moments.
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Posted in Qualities of a Hero, tagged Anyway, Be kind anyway, Hero on March 14, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Being a tenacious hero means having the courage to persevere in the face of adversity. It means refusing to give up, even when the odds are stacked against you. Here are some tips for cultivating tenacity in your own life:
Being a tenacious hero requires perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to overcome challenges. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are immeasurable. By cultivating tenacity in our own lives, we can achieve our goals and make a positive impact on the world around us. So let’s embrace our inner tenacious heroes and never give up on what we believe in.
For your library:
“Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth – This book is one of the most popular books about grit. Duckworth explores the concept of grit and shows how it can help us overcome challenges and achieve our goals.
“The Obstacle Is the Way” by Ryan Holiday – This book draws on the ancient philosophy of Stoicism to show how obstacles can actually be opportunities for growth and success. Holiday argues that by embracing challenges and persevering through adversity, we can develop greater resilience and strength.
“True Grit” by Charles Portis – This classic novel tells the story of Mattie Ross, a young girl who sets out to avenge her father’s death. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Mattie refuses to give up and demonstrates true grit and determination.
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Posted in Qualities of a Hero, tagged Be kind anyway, Hero on March 13, 2023| Leave a Comment »
Resilience is an essential trait for heroes, and it’s what separates them from the rest of us. Resilience allows heroes to overcome adversity, to stand up against injustice, and to keep going when things get tough. In this blog post, we will explore the qualities that make a resilient hero and how you can cultivate resilience in your own life.
A resilient hero is someone who can bounce back from setbacks and continue on their path. They are not easily discouraged or defeated, and they never give up on their goals. A resilient hero is someone who is able to see the bigger picture and stay focused on their purpose, even in the face of adversity. They understand that setbacks and challenges are a part of the journey and that they can learn from them and use them to grow stronger.
To cultivate resilience in your own life, there are several things you can do. First, you need to have a clear sense of purpose and a set of values that guide your actions. This will help you stay focused on what’s important and keep you motivated when things get tough.
Second, you need to develop a growth mindset. This means embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than seeing them as obstacles. When you approach challenges with a growth mindset, you are more likely to bounce back from setbacks and continue on your path.
Third, you need to take care of yourself. This means getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and taking time to relax and recharge. When you are physically and mentally healthy, you are better equipped to handle stress and adversity.
Finally, you need to surround yourself with supportive people. This means building a strong network of friends, family, and colleagues who believe in you and your goals. When you have a supportive network, you are more likely to bounce back from setbacks and stay motivated in the face of challenges.
Resilience is an essential trait for heroes, and it’s something that we can all cultivate in our own lives. By having a clear sense of purpose, a growth mindset, taking care of ourselves, and surrounding ourselves with supportive people, we can all become more resilient and overcome the challenges that come our way.
For your library:
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck – This book is a classic on the topic of growth mindset. It outlines the author’s research on the difference between a fixed mindset (believing that our abilities and intelligence are fixed traits) and a growth mindset (believing that our abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication). The book provides practical advice on how to develop a growth mindset and overcome the limiting beliefs of a fixed mindset.
The Resilience Factor: 7 Keys to Finding Your Inner Strength and Overcoming Life’s Hurdles” by Karen Reivich and Andrew Shatté – This book offers a comprehensive guide to developing resilience. The authors provide a framework for understanding resilience and offer practical strategies for cultivating resilience in everyday life, as well as during times of crisis and trauma.
“Bouncing Back: Rewiring Your Brain for Maximum Resilience and Well-Being” by Linda Graham – This book explores the neuroscience of resilience and how we can train our brains to bounce back from adversity. The author offers practical exercises and strategies for developing resilience, including mindfulness practices, cognitive restructuring, and self-compassion. The book also includes case studies and stories of individuals who have successfully built resilience in the face of challenges.
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Posted in Uncategorized, tagged Anyway, Hero, riseabove on March 9, 2023| Leave a Comment »
There was a young man named Jack who had an infectious personality and a natural charisma that drew people to him. Jack was always the center of attention at parties and social gatherings, and his friends often joked that he could talk his way out of anything.
One day, Jack decided to use his charisma to try and make a positive change in the world. He decided to start a charity to help people in his community, and set about trying to raise money and awareness for his cause.
At first, Jack struggled to get people interested in his charity. But he didn’t give up. Instead, he used his charisma to persuade local businesses to donate money and supplies, and he gave speeches at community events to raise awareness.
Slowly but surely, Jack’s charity began to gain traction. More and more people started to get involved, and the charity became a major force for good in the community. Jack continued to use his charisma to rally people around his cause, and he became a beloved figure in the community for his selflessness and dedication to helping others.
Years later, Jack looked back on his journey with pride. He had used his natural charisma not just to entertain people, but to make a real difference in the world. And he realized that with the power of charisma, anything is possible if you have the courage and determination to make it happen.
Charisma is a quality that many heroes possess. Charismatic individuals are often seen as likable, inspiring, and magnetic, with a natural ability to influence and persuade others. While charisma is often associated with celebrities and political leaders, heroes in all fields and professions can exhibit charismatic qualities.
For your library:
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie – While not explicitly about charisma, this classic self-help book offers valuable insights into how to build relationships and influence others, which are key components of charisma.
“Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges” by Amy Cuddy – This book examines how body language, posture, and other nonverbal cues can influence how others perceive us, and offers practical tips for how to project confidence and charisma in any situation.
“The Charisma Myth” by Olivia Fox Cabane – This book explores the science behind charisma and provides practical tips for how to increase your own charisma.
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