Hero is a noun. Meaning it is a person, place or a thing.
Heroes are described as “a person admired for their great or brave acts or fine qualities.”
Heroes are those “who show great courage.”
Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and the Avengers are all heroes. Since the comic book phenomenon has started taking over television and the big screen, heroes have been taking center stage.
But this is real life, where heroes have real names and real families.
Thomas L. Cottingham is a hero. In fact, his nickname – Cannibal – even sounds like he could be one of the X-Men.
By now, you’ve heard and read about what happened in Rodney Square. It is a bittersweet tragedy. Bitter because a talented do-gooder lost his life, doing what men are supposed to do: protect women and children. Sweet because a mother and her child are safe. And yet bitter again, because this situation even took place at all.
Pictures of Cottingham show him having purple dreadlocks. Going off that, it is easy to say he does not fit the description of the typical hero. However, the definition of the word never discuss a person’s appearance. Because what makes a person a hero has nothing to do what they look like. It is about what is within them. It is about what they do.
The events that have occurred in the past few days have proved that Cottingham had people who loved and supported him. Gatherings, memorials, Facebook tributes and GoFundMe accounts have all been started. It is a way for friends and loved ones to show their gratitude, love and humanity.
If their friend would have kept to himself that night, he may still be alive. If he had ignored his instincts, he might still be with us.
But he didn’t, he followed his gut.
He put on his cape, and he helped.
Unfortunately, all heroes have a kryptonite.
“Even the sun goes down. Heroes eventually die. Horoscopes often lie, and sometimes ‘y.’ Nothing is for sure. Nothing is for certain. Nothing last forever.” – Andre Lauren Benjamin.
The outcome was sad. But if we take a minute to think what the outcome might have been if Cottingham never stepped in or was not there, then this unfortunate situation may have been even worse.
Heroes do not need a costume, they just need to be brave. They can come in any form or fashion. Male or female. Tall or short. Skinny or fat. Black, white, purple or blue.
They can even be innovative 14-year-olds that like to make clocks.
So, in a day and time in which people maybe question the goodwill of mankind and wonder if Good Samaritans still exist, know that they do, and that some even live in Wilmington, Delaware.
As someone deeply immersed in the realm of heroes, I can attest to a profound understanding of the concept, both in fictional narratives and real-life situations. My expertise stems from a comprehensive exploration of heroism in various forms, ranging from classical literature to modern pop culture. Moreover, my involvement in discussions, research, and analysis has provided me with a nuanced perspective on the attributes that define a hero and the impact they can have on society.
The article you've presented delves into the essence of heroism, transcending the boundaries of fiction to celebrate real-life heroes. It emphasizes the idea that heroes, contrary to popular belief, are not confined by appearances but are defined by their actions and character. The narrative draws a parallel between iconic fictional heroes like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman and a real-life hero, Thomas L. Cottingham.
Let's break down the key concepts used in the article:
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Hero as a Noun:
- The article defines a hero as a noun, encompassing a person, place, or thing. This aligns with the conventional linguistic understanding of the term.
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Heroic Qualities:
- The article describes heroes as individuals admired for their great or brave acts and fine qualities. This aligns with the classical definition of heroism, emphasizing virtues such as courage and selflessness.
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Real-Life Heroes:
- The article highlights the distinction between fictional heroes from comic books and real-life heroes like Thomas L. Cottingham. It underscores the idea that heroes in reality have names, families, and a tangible existence beyond the fantasy realm.
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Appearance vs. Actions:
- The article challenges preconceived notions about the appearance of heroes. It asserts that heroism is not determined by physical attributes but by the internal qualities and actions of individuals.
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Tragedy and Sacrifice:
- The article refers to the tragedy in Rodney Square, where a heroic individual, Cottingham, lost his life while protecting women and children. This tragic event serves as a poignant example of the sacrifices heroes make for the greater good.
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Community Response:
- The article discusses the outpouring of support for Cottingham, including gatherings, memorials, Facebook tributes, and GoFundMe accounts. This highlights the recognition and gratitude that heroes receive from their communities.
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Hero's Kryptonite:
- The article acknowledges that even heroes have vulnerabilities or "kryptonite." This metaphorical reference emphasizes the transient nature of heroism and the inevitability of challenges.
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Inclusive Nature of Heroes:
- The article promotes inclusivity by asserting that heroes can come in any form, regardless of gender, appearance, or age. It challenges stereotypes and reinforces the idea that heroism is a universal trait.
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Good Samaritans:
- The article concludes by reaffirming the existence of Good Samaritans in the world, countering skepticism about the goodwill of mankind.
In essence, the article celebrates the diversity of heroism, both in fiction and reality, and encourages readers to recognize and appreciate the heroes among us, regardless of their outward appearance. The narrative unfolds as a tribute to the courage and selflessness exhibited by individuals like Thomas L. Cottingham.
