Heroes and Superheros

Why, I wonder does reality have to slap us in the face? I wish it would sometimes leave us alone, content in our own little world and thoughts. I want a vacation, I want a family vacation. We have a timeshare and need to use it, otherwise why pay for it? There is a place called the Wisconsin Dells about 8 hours from here. It is supposed to be fun, but relaxing, sort of a “do what you will” place. Not like Disney World where you go and basically everything is mapped out for you and it’s a lot of walking, lots of crowds, lots of waiting… It’s also supposed to be a great place for Toddlers. One of the things you can do is go on a Duck Ride – a boat ride to see the ducks. That is right up our alley and would probably be the highlight for Praysie (unless of course we see a random puppy taking a walk…)

I received an email back from my Grandma telling me that Grandad doesn’t think he’d be able to make the trip or even ride in the car. I don’t know why I was so set back. I shouldn’t have been, but I was. My Grandparents are and always have been my Heroes. Their example of marriage is hilarious, but true, and real. Their faith is something they LIVE. They encourage me, they talk my ears off, and everyone knows my Grandad can’t keep a family secret to save his life. It is what makes our family, our family.

I realized my 28 year mistake that day. Heroes are unfortunately not the same as Superheroes. Not fair, really. Yes, Superman may be able to stop a speeding bullet. He may stop a speeding train, and save a bunch of people for that day. That’s the kicker though,  it’s just for the day. My Grandparents? They work and pray for people to be saved for an eternity. They have changed the course of our family tree simply by living their lives and doing what they do, being who they are and setting an example. They have changed the course of hundreds of family trees by caring, by loving, and by doing.

So – why can they not be Superheros? Why aren’t they bullet-proof? Heart Disease-proof? Scoliosis-proof? Age-proof? That’s the reality part, as for the first time I really began to understand. I’ve sat in countless hospital rooms, praying massive prayers, but I believe that it has truly hit me. Along with reality however, comes gratitude, amazement, and a realization of how blessed I have been with the family I was given. Yes, a gift. I am one lucky gal, they may not be “Superheros”, but Heros works for me.