About This Episode:

In this episode of “#WalkWithMe” I challenge the traditional definition of what it means to be a “hero” and share some thoughts on how every single one of us can be a hero—right now. 

I believe there are two groups of people and that we all fall into one group or the other. The first group has a direct impact on the solution, and many of us view them as heroes. They’re the ones on the front lines who are putting themselves in harm’s way in order to protect the rest of us. They’re the first responders. The health professionals and medical experts. The scientists and lab technicians. The essential businesses working around the clock. And we need to support and celebrate these people very day. 

Then there’s Group B, which is the rest of us. And our only job is to buy Group A time through self-isolation, social distancing and doing everything we can do to slow the virus and flatten the curve. If there’s two groups, there’s also two types of heroes.  It’s easy for us to view Group A people as heroes, but here’s where I want to make a shift in perception: Those in Group B can also be heroes. 

Growing up we thought that to qualify as a “hero,” you had to go out there and literally save the day. But in today’s world, the exact opposite is true. By staying home and protecting yourself, you protect everybody else. In fact, the most selfish thing we can do right now is to try to play Hero and take an action that puts others at risk.

If you’re in Group B and staying home, you’re already a hero to others. Use positive words as a weapon against negative noise, incorrect information and hyperboles. Speak in facts. Use education to equip others. Share positive stories. Lift each other up. As a hero in quarantine, your biggest strength is your voice… so, use it for good.