First — before my heroes list — I need to mention a ‘comment attack’ from what appear to be spammers — this morning 71 comments appeared in my Spam Log — I waded through them and while a couple appeared legit, I don’t think they were, so I deleted all 71. If I inadvertently deleted a comment from you, my apologies. Please resubmit if possible. Thanks.

And now… The Heroes Amongst Us.

My friend Dave T is a hero. I worked with him for ten months at the shelter where I used to work and I was in awe of his knowledge and professional in fund-raising. Post working together, Dave continues to share his time, talent and expertise without hesitation. Yesterday I met him to discuss a grant proposal I’m preparing for a project and he offered up all sorts of ideas and brainstormed ways to make my proposal better. Dave likes to give back. Dave makes a difference.

Dave T is a hero.

Leah R. gives continuously to people. She’s worked within the homeless sector for more years than I can count and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure people know, no matter where they stand on the street, they are seen, heard and held in supporting arms. Leah has an amazing personal story which she shared on the DI blog just before I left the shelter. Leah is one amazing and inspiring woman!

Leah R is a hero.

My sister Jackie T. is a hero. She is the primary caretaker of our 90-year-old mother and she gives effortlessly and tirelessly. Not only to mom, but to friends in need, neighbours, her family. Jackie also has a chronic disease that leaves her tired and often living with pain. She doesn’t complain about what life has dealt her, she moves through grace, always lending a hand, helping out, giving to ensure others feel comforted.

Jackie T is a hero.

Debbie H is an emergency room nurse who continuously awes me with her caring nature. She is a role model and a leader. When faced with the challenges of an Emergency room, cut backs in health care funding and staff morale that ebbs and flows, Debbie continuously looks for ways to ‘make it better’. Her difference is felt in patients knowing they receive the best care, in co-workers seeing how easy it is to make a difference by bringing their best, a different perspective to the job, whatever it takes to serve the people in their care and by sharing love and beauty where ever she goes.

Debbie H is a hero.

Who are your heroes? Got anyone in your life needs celebrating right now? Why not tell them of your awe? Why not share your gratitude for their light on your path? We all make a difference when we celebrate the best of those around us. In our celebration, the world is ‘made different’.

Namaste.