Heroes

 This week following a decision to rename more than 40 schools that were named after historical figures, a San Francisco school board member stated "we should not make heroes out of mortal folks."  

I'm not debating that there aren't times to seriously consider the choices and ways we honor people, but this statement simply isn't true.

It is because of Jesus Christ that we are able to look at the good that people have accomplished in spite of their flaws and weaknesses.  We can then learn from them and have patience in our own struggles to overcome our own weaknesses and also do good.

Thomas S Monson taught:

"In our selection of heroes, let us nominate also heroines."

I love this because I have many heroines and heroes that have been role models for me. 

He further stated:

"Some may question: “But what is the value of such an illustrious list of heroes, even a private Hall of Fame?” I answer. When we obey, as did Adam, endure as did Job, teach as did Paul, testify as did Peter, serve as did Nephi, give ourselves as did the prophet Joseph, respond as did Ruth, honor as did Mary, and live as did Christ, we are born anew. All power becomes ours. Cast off forever is the old self and with it defeat, despair, doubt, and disbelief. To a newness of life we come—a life of faith, hope, courage, and joy. No task looms too large. No responsibility weighs too heavily. No duty is a burden. All things become possible."

Heroes help us see possibilities. 

We are desperately trying to reduce defeat, despair, doubt and disbelief in our world today. When people see what others have overcome, it plants in their minds and hearts the possibility that perhaps they could do the same. 

Wise parents intentionally put good heroes in their children's paths. 

Yes, we can make heroes out of mortal folks, and as we emulate their strengths and learn from their failings, in the process we become heroes to our future generations.