Heroes or Ordinary People - You Pick!

I read / watched a few awards ceremonies and definitely felt humbled learning about the work that others did in film, music, art, technology, and for society. Each awardee had major accomplishments and deserved praise. It seemed like folks were applauded the most for chasing their dreams and believing in possibility. I appreciate that viewpoint and harbor it too, with some bounds.

But, what about the folks who make sacrifices to make others dreams possible? My mom and dad for example - they gave up their dreams in childhood and teenage-hood to help their family. One can argue if that was the "right decision" or the "most optimal choice" - but all that aside, its what they did. I came as a result of those choices and am happy that I exist :)

I do not mean to indicate that those who achieve success don't make sacrifices - yes they definitely do! But all "visionaries" are successful because of a team. And...not all of them are great to be around on a daily basis since its always about them :)

I will not mention any names here...a visionary I'm thinking of did not show appreciation in everyday interactions. It's weird that the whole world now looks at this person as a role model, and I had alternate experiences. In fact, I found this person to be a major jerk and one of the worst people I've ever met! Incredibly narcissistic, arrogant, etc. This person only seemed to "care" if you agreed completely with his/her world view. In fact, this individual had a reputation for it - and was known to only help others who helped him/her. Everyone else was discarded like trash. The funny thing is I was warned about this by many others, including those closest to this person, and then was "shocked" when I experienced the same behavior. Now this individual is publicly seen as a hero. I scratch my head a bit when I think about it.

From what I hear, this person changed dramatically when facing an incredible life challenge and acknowledged mistakes from the past. I appreciate that - I changed a lot too when dealing with/recovering from a major life challenge in my late teenage years. I made many mistakes in interactions with the individual as well, and have learned from the experience. I still have some unresolved anger, hurt and sadness from interactions with this person, but am practicing forgiveness and compassion.

All this aside, I would like to take a minute to thank my team - everyone who has entered my life and helped me grow. Some of you are still in my life, some of you aren't. I enjoyed being around some of you and hated being around some of you (and still hate some of you) - but all of you have been teachers. In fact those of you I hate the most have taught me the most about myself (what I value, what I don't value, who I want to be...my shoulds, etc). I have grown from my interaction with you. I am learning to love all of myself, the good, the bad and the ugly. I am grateful.