A true and great hero died last week.
Most knew him as Robert Succop Whiteside – a decorated (for heroism) World War II naval officer, distinguished graduate of Carnegie Tech (Carnegie Mellon) at a time when it was more prestigious than Yale, successful business man, epic world traveler, and more.
I knew him as Opa – my grand-dad. I was one of the lucky ones.
We need heroes – I believe now more than ever. Granted, we’re not at war with Axis powers. But in a society on the brink of economic and ecological ruin that’s bleeding-out of vigor, audacity, and morality – I’d say some good ol’ fashioned heroism is precisely the ass-kicking we need.
This is not propaganda to become a robotic replica of the rich-and-famous. This is a honest plea to find those truly authentic and heroic persons in your life, learn from them, and become a hero yourself.
This quest starts with a simple question – who is your hero?
PS – If you’d like to learn more about my beloved Opa and discover how his epic example can inspire you, please read my tribute to him. It’d mean a lot to preserving his legacy. Thank you!
I’d have to say I have two heros…and neither of them know it
The first would be my uncle. I spent a ton of time with this guy growing up. Sooo smart on the entrepreneurial side, and has an amazing family which he ALWAYS makes time for. I’d have to say most of my views on family and business have come from watching him.
Secondly, Richard Branson…and NOT just because of his bank account. He plays by his own rules, has the balls to try new things and NEVER lets anyone discourage him from trying something new…I mean he went from a music company, to a mobile phone company, to an airline, to putting people in space….You think he ascribes to the “only do what you know” train of thought? NO WAY!
Also, the guy has passion and knows how to make a LOT of time for fun…which is rare.
Those are my two heros.
Hey Sunny!
Those are two outstanding heroes to have. Wow!
Your uncle sounds fantastic! I’m continually inspired by the ultra-entrepreneurial folks that can still make massive amounts of time for family.
And Branson is second to no one in brilliance – for all of the awesome reasons you state and more. He’s a real game-changer!
Cheers!
Matt
Mine has been, for quite some time, my father. I could go into a lot of detail here, but the base of it how he’s been able to maintain his personal integrity while at the same time being a minister. He does a lot of charity work that he refuses to take credit for, but rather works quietly in the background helping others.
Awesome! To me that defines integrity, when you consciously don’t take the credit for all the great things you do and give.
Sounds like you’re very lucky to have such a great role model and hero.
Cheers!
Matt
As odd as it may seem, my hero is my best friend and one-time bully. When I first moved to New Egypt, he was a playground bully and I was an easy target. After a couple of years, he changed his ways and is now the most considerate, kind, and upright people I know. He’s a portrait of hard work (he graduated college with a 4.0 with a double major while playing football) and virtue. He’s been my closest friend for 20 years.
Besides him, Ben Franklin.
Hi Edward-
Thanks for sharing your story. That does seem odd to me, but I’m glad that it’s been such a positive influence for you! Kudos to him for his hard work as you say!
Franklin’s a great hero to have too. He’s on my list as well.
Cheers!
Matt