Is there someone, either in history, or in your life, who is a hero to you? Is there an inspirational person you look up to, revere and that no-one else could ever replace in your mind and/or affections? A final one- does everyone need a hero?
Fascinating answers all! It is very often the case that legendary individuals are often not as independent as they seem and were themselves inspired by others. Ernest Shackleton is a great example of one who was lauded as a hero during his lifetime, but often overlooked today- Sir Ranulph Fiennes would be a similar character who is alive today, but although I admire and respect him, wouldn't regard him as a "hero"...
As daft as this may sound, my late dog Alfie battled illness all his life, had surgeries to his abdomen and was never without an ear infection. He constantly had to live with me administering medications, cleaning out his ears and wiping his eyes. He survived hardship and starvation on the streets of the Costa Blanca before being rescued and adopted. He moved back to the UK and settled into life here.
He was such a happy and loving boy with the purest soul and most beautiful nature. My eyes are filling up just typing this. I've grieved more for him than I have done for any friend or relative I've lost.
I also greatly admire the courage and determination of the McCanns and their refusal to stop looking for their missing daughter, against a constant stream of accusations and abuse, suspicion and even defamation by the Portuguese authorities and the world's media. To go through something like that and keep on fighting, searching and even raising awareness of the plight of missing children and campaigning for a Europe-wide Amber Alert system.
I am in agreement with NoMercy in her post about the bravery of her dog. i have worked as a volunteer in animal rescue all my life and we could all take a lesson from the bravery, resilience and sheer determination that animals possess in the face of the most appalling suffering. They are my heroes.