The Spirit of 911 – Heroes Move Toward Those In Need
The date was September 11, 2001. The location was the World Trade Center in New York City. As others fled, NYC firefighters and police officers ran toward the danger.
The spirit of these heroic men and women who lost their lives that fateful day can be seen in this iconic photo. And that’s what heroes do, right? Heroes run toward not away from human need and danger.
Sixteen years later, 911 has become chiseled into our national conscience. Undoubtedly is was as a day of great loss, however also a day that called forth the best in the human spirit.
“The greatest love you can show is to give your life for your friends.” ~ John 15:13
Some heroes are revealed by split moment action. Placing their own well being in peril to save another human being. However others are heroes by their daily actions, stemming the tide of some injustice or social ill. Those who fight hunger or human trafficking or racial hatred are heroic in their own right.
In my opinion people who mentor children and students are everyday heroes. By coming along side these young ones, they provide a guiding hand, a listening ear, a steady voice and a physical presence to walk with them through the many perils and dangers found in our society.
Jason Graves, Pastor and Men of Distinction mentor says, ”Many children in this world do not have consistent access to supportive relationships with adults. This robs them of the chance to learn, by example, how to make healthy decisions. Mentoring gives you the opportunity to change that trend in the life of one child.”
I often say, “be a hero, mentor a child!” We have wonderful mentors all throughout our community. I serve as a mentor via Communities in Schools of North Texas. Their hashtag is #allinforkids and they offer many wonderful ways to engage in mentoring. Loving Community offers many ways to mentor kids as well. We have Boys2Men, Loving Reading and Men of Distinction.
And as you show your love, by giving your life to others, I think you’ll find what Ben Miller, Youth Pastor and Men of Distinction mentor has found that, “Mentoring is a two-way street in which we strengthen and build the next generation, while simultaneously being given understanding and new love for those around us.”
So, on this 911 day of remembrance and celebration of heroism, move toward those in need, be a hero mentor a child!
To find out more or to sign up to mentor a child or student follow these links for Loving Community or Communities in Schools of North Texas.
