What We've Forgotten

"We can't all be heroes, because someone has to sit on the curb and applaud them when they go by."
-Will Rogers

There is a reason that the tales of heroes and their feats live on through literature and legend. Society is impressed and inspired by these individuals who take great risks and accomplish grand endeavours; We are astounded by their extraordinary qualities and admire their selflessness and dedication.

Of course, not every one is meant to be a hero. That does not make us lesser people, but simply different people. There are those who are not cut out for a life of sacrifice and danger, those who aren't "doers", but "thinkers", those who prefer to follow by example instead of forging their own paths. These people are integral to the concept of heroism. They lend encouragement and support to those who could potentially manifest the ideal of a hero. They inspire the heroes, and in turn inspire us. They are the metaphorical "backbone" of heroism.

I feel as though this has been completely forgotten today. In modern society, there is pressure for everyone to take up leadership opportunities, to exercise authority to better themselves. But in a society of leaders, who follows? A leader is nothing without people behind him.