WE COULD BE HEROES

January 22, 2026
Drew
Thought

“A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with freedom.”
— Bob Dylan

I’ve been going to yoga again, once or twice a week. [Hot yoga, which is something I swore I’d never repeat after a brutal experience about twenty years ago, but the vibe of these classes is much less punishing than what I suffered before, and I’m digging it.]

In a recent session, the instructor was leading us through a series of varied sun salutations, flowing from one asana to another: warrior one, warrior two, reverse warrior — all very muscular and powerful postures. I was feeling vigorous and balanced, strong and flexible, thinking, “I’ve still got it! Boo-yah! I’m a warrior!”

Then she guided us to our mats, on our knees, spine straight, shoulders relaxed, inviting us to sit between our heels. “Hero pose,” she said.

I was struck how very different hero felt, after all those warriors.

Hero was relaxing. Still poised, still stretching, still mindful, but less about pushing through, powering through to the next thing, and more about opening — simply breathing and being present.

I like this, both as an actual physical posture and as a metaphor. The reminder that being a warrior and being a hero aren’t necessarily the same thing. We can be both, sure. But to be a hero doesn’t have to involve constant force, endurance, and embattlement. Thank god.

The world is crying out for heroes, calling us, each of us, to be as heroic as we can possibly be. At the same time, most people I know are feeling tired and overwhelmed, longing for a break from the relentless urgency of it all.

I am encouraged by the idea that we might be able to have it both ways — that we could be heroic and relaxed at the same time — invigorated and calm, valiant and peaceful, committed and receptive. Meeting the needs of the world, each other’s and our own souls’, while also giving ourselves a friggin’ break.

So I’m thinking about what it really means to be a hero. You can find different definitions. But most seem to include integrity, courage, care for others, and a willingness to risk one’s own security, comfort, or convenience.

Integrity = Alignment of what we believe, what we say, and what we do.
Courage = Being true even when we are frightened. Doing our best to remain open-hearted even when we’ve been hurt before and we might get hurt again.
Care = Generosity of spirit, and a recognition of our mutual responsibility.
Commitment = Beyond what’s easy, beyond the status quo, beyond comfort and convenience. Not to celebrate martyrdom or suffering, but simply to accept that our vitality and aliveness is born out of our deep engagement in the things that matter to us. By honoring our commitments, we nurture our soul’s purpose, and participate in creating the world we want to live in.

Maybe heroism is just about meeting the moment. Bringing ourselves fully to the moment, this moment, and all that it is. Maybe it’s the most natural thing in the world.

There’s often a sense of adventure about the word, “hero.” It tends to evoke glory, honor, and acclaim. And that’s fine when it happens, but I don’t think ambition for such is necessarily an heroic quality. Because we can find lots of examples of ordinary people who demonstrate heroism without anyone much noticing at all.

Everyday heroes, they’re all around us. People doing good. People being true, helpful, kind. Emerson said, “A hero is no more brave than an ordinary person, but she is brave five minutes longer.”

Part of my commitment is to look for them. And to let myself be impressed by them. Easily impressed, even. I don’t have to withhold my appreciation. Because the more I see these heroes everywhere, the more I can notice and allow my own heroic qualities. Inspired and inspiring. Again, like breathing.

We could be heroes, my friends. Boldly facing the world while being gentle with our own tender hearts. Accepting what is while creating on purpose what comes next. Looking for the best in each other so that we can find it in ourselves, and vice versa.

I can’t wait to be with you this Sunday, January 25, 10:00am at q-Staff Theater. With the dazzling Patty Stephens. XO, Drew