Bold, Brave, and Bigger Than Life
Americans love a hero. We especially love the ones who are indomitable, undefeatable, defiant, and grimly determined to finish their race--whatever their race may be.
But a true hero also wears layers of humility. I love writing men who are solid, steady, and courageous, but humble enough not to consider themselves heroic.
History is replete with stories of heroes. Did you know that George Washington had two horses shot out from under him? And four bullet holes in his coat! And what of Sgt. York's uncanny shooting? Or Desmond Doss's superhuman feat of rescuing men from Hackasaw Ridge?
In fiction, who's bigger and more endearing than Rooster Cogburn? Or Matt Dillon?
This past Saturday, a crazy kid tried to shoot our president. And like a true hero, President Trump raised a defiant fist at his assassin(s) and urged us all to keep fighting for this country. But Trump has since also repeatedly expressed his appreciation to God that he's not dead.
Getting part of an ear shot off can certainly mix some humility into a man's DNA.
A writer couldn't come up with a more heroic response to an attempted assassination. A defiant fist in the air. The victim yelling, "Fight, fight, fight!" This is George Washington-level stuff.
Vets always say the real character of a man comes out when he's under fire. Trump isn't perfect. No human is. But I do not think you can deny the man knows how to take a bullet.
As a writer, I'm intrigued. As an American, I'm proud.
Love him or hate him, Trump has a spine, and a big love for his country. Agree or not? Feel free to share your thoughts with me.
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