Batman watched his parents die. Spiderman’s wasn’t around. Superman was sent away from his real home, only to be adopted by loving parents whom he later lost to a car accident. These men became vigilantes because of their losses. They felt they had nothing else to lose, so they focused on defending the innocent, sometimes to their detriment.
It is through loss that I have joined their ranks. My father passed away this week, just one of the many causalities of this war called life. Loss has tempered my empathy towards those in need of help. It can either break you or it can strengthen your resolve. It makes me want to live better.
The Struggle
When I signed up for the tech-hero life, I had no idea what it would entail. I wanted to save the world, one tech struggle at a time. I wanted to help people find answers, overcome fears, and become more confident in their use of technology. I thought it would be easy, but it’s in the times of loss that I realize that the struggle never ends. There will always be one more tech issue, one more concerned citizen, one more mal-intender. Even when my world is falling apart, there are others who need me to remain strong.
I think it’s why so many heroes try to fight their battles on their own. They feel the world on their shoulders and are afraid to let others in – for fear of losing them too. Unfortunately, it can lead them to push others away and take unnecessary risks. It can lead to their own downfall.
The Response
If you’re a hero, remember that you’re not alone. When disaster strikes or causalities occur, take some time to assess the damage and rest your soul. There will always be a need for your skills, but you must care for yourself first if you’re to take care of the world around you.
Your struggle – whatever it is – does not define you. It can break you or it can make you stronger. I hope you become stronger.