What makes a hero?

The concern for other people in need, without expectation of reward.

Because when you are amongst someone that is truly a hero, there is something different and remarkable about them. You just know it.

The best explanation of a hero that I have read comes from Phillip Zimbardo, who says, “simply put, the key to heroism is a concern for other people in need—a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there is a personal risk, done without expectation of reward.”

To put it another way, a selfless sacrifice for the moral benefit of another person.

That's a high hurdle. And something you don't come across everyday.

But in March, I met one of my heroes. Her name is Mary.

Anna and I talked to Mary and she was sweet, kind, loving. In a lot of ways, she felt like she was part of my family.

After an hour of hearing stories about her, Mary said the words that will forever change my life. Words that were so powerful, and amazing, I listened humbly in awe. She said, “I am pregnant and I know I cannot take care of my baby. He needs more than I can provide. I choose you as the adoptive parents of my baby.”

Tears are again filling my eyes as I write these words.

The only thing I can do when I think about a love that great is to cry.

Mary loves her son so much, that she is willing to give him to us, so that he can live a life she cannot provide for him alone.

Can you imagine making that decision? Or loving anything that much? Even if I KNEW Fiona could have a better life with someone else, I cannot fathom giving her away to someone else’s care.

I’m weak.

But more importantly, Mary is strong.

Mary is a hero.

The key to heroism is a concern for other people in need—a concern to defend a moral cause, knowing there is a personal risk, done without expectation of reward.

In June, Anna and I became the adoptive parents of a baby boy, Peter “Rocky” Paprocki. Our hearts are overjoyed.

All because of the actions of a hero.

Matt