Everyday superheroes

When you’re writing about good versus evil and superhero powers like telepathy, telekinesis and teleporting, it’s pretty easy to forget that there are every day superheroes out there.

They don’t wear capes and costumes. They wear smiles.

They don’t read people’s minds. They see someone in need and lend a helping hand.

I met real-life superheroes last month at a conference in Portland, Oregon, called the World Domination Summit. Right, it sounds like it’s for supervillains, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The people I met are making a difference.

They stand for community, service, and adventure.

They’re looking around and saying, “This person needs help, and I can do something about it.” And they’re doing it.

They’re looking around and saying, “This (thing) is broken, and I see a way to fix it.” And they’re doing it.

They’re looking around and saying, “My life isn’t what I want it to be, but I can change it.” And they’re doing it.

Plus, they’re having fun along the way.

That’s pretty hard to argue with.

Sounds crazy, but I met some great friends while standing in lines waiting to hear the mainstage speakers. (I’ll write about them later.) I met new friends in meet ups. Each one is a superhero. Some are like me and just a bit lost about what our next steps are. Others are already doing super work.

  • Working with the homeless
  • Raising awareness about issues
  • Running non-profits
  • Helping the disabled
  • Creating books, art, music, or apps

Superpower: Changing an idea into an action and an action into a movement.

Superpower: Freely giving support to any and all who need it. Sometimes it’s a high five in congratulations. Sometimes it’s a hug. Sometimes it’s verbal: “You got this!”

Superpower: Inspiring change to make this world a better place.

What’s your superpower?

– Jennifer