There are superheroes amongst us. They don’t wear capes or cowls. But they are ready at a moment’s notice to lend a hand. They don’t have superpowers, except for empathy, compassion, and generosity.
Our local heroes aren’t fighting the Joker, Lex Luthor, the Riddler, or Magneto. Their arch-enemies are much tougher. They are taking on suffering, poverty, ignorance, and indifference. You can’t take down suffering with a single punch.
Like about 97% of the rest of Americans, I am sick and tired of the depressing national news. A quick scan of the headlines reveals some of the worst tendencies of humans. We are treated daily to tales of political corruption, greed, and immoral behavior. Quite frankly, I don’t want to know all of the lurid details that come to our attention in some of these scandals. I’ve got other things to do.
But that’s just focusing on the negatives from the national narrative. Closer to home, it is a much different story. Sure, there are still negative stories about corruption, crime, and abuses of power at the local level. But I know there is so much good being done. In my daily life, I see a lot more of that. Read through the orchids section of this newspaper, and it doesn’t take long to learn about the character of some of our neighbors.
The modern architecture in Columbus is great. But it is the kindness and generosity that makes this a unique and special place to call home.
Altruism doesn’t make the news often. Even Perry White, editor of The Daily Planet, knows that stories of kindness don’t sell. It’s the crude, the shocking, the vulgar that people want to read about. That’s probably just fine with some of our local superheroes who prefer to go incognito.
In this community, if you put out a call for help, some come running. They donate their time and give financially.
Many of these local superheroes don’t need a Bat Signal. They see a need, like people who don’t have food or shelter, and these crusaders without capes go above and beyond. They help those struggling with domestic violence. They raise money for all kinds of good causes. They help children. They donate their time to celebrate our veterans. They save sick and abused animals. They make our community a safer place. They make sure our city is cleaner and healthier. They contribute to the arts and humanities, improving our quality of life.
Our local superheroes don’t take credit. They go about their random acts of kindness quietly. Recognition isn’t the point. They are not angling for an interview on cable news or trying to get a book deal. They don’t make a big show at public meetings. They don’t run ads during Wheel of Fortune bragging about how great they are and make promises about what they are going to do for us in the future. They are working behind the scenes to make the world a better place.
I know what you’ve been up to, Batman. Even though this isn’t Gotham City, I’ve seen you around town. But don’t worry, your secret identity is safe with me.
Aaron Miller is one of The Republic’s community columnists and all opinions expressed are those of the writer. He has a doctorate in history and is an associate professor of history at Ivy Tech Community College-Columbus. Send comments to [email protected].
