As I reflect on recent events, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions – numbness, anger, and profound sadness. The 24th anniversary of 9/11, Charlie Kirk’s assassination, and a senseless murder in Charlotte by a career criminal have all hit hard this week. Yet amid these dark moments, I’m reminded of something powerful: the courage of those who run toward danger when everyone else runs away.
I was in the streets of New York on September 11, 2001. The memory of wailing sirens from fire trucks and police cruisers remains vivid in my mind. While thousands fled the chaos and destruction, these brave men and women raced directly into it. They didn’t hesitate. They didn’t calculate the odds of survival. They simply acted on their commitment to protect and serve.
The Lifeguards Among Us
I call these people “lifeguards” – individuals who instinctively rush toward danger to save others. They exist in many forms throughout our society:
- First responders who enter burning buildings or crime scenes
- Military personnel who put themselves in harm’s way
- Ordinary citizens who step up in extraordinary moments
Consider the case of Irina Zarutska, who was recently stabbed on a train while others watched, frozen in fear or indifference. One brave soul stepped forward, trying desperately to help her not bleed to death. This person embodied the lifeguard spirit – seeing someone in danger and acting without hesitation.
Charlie Kirk, regardless of what you might think about his politics, was another type of lifeguard. He ran toward the fire of public discourse, standing firmly for what he believed in despite knowing the risks that came with visibility and controversy. His life was cut short, but his courage in facing opposition and criticism head-on deserves recognition.
The Rarity of True Courage
What strikes me most about these lifeguards is how rare they seem to be becoming in our society. We live in an age where many people film tragedies rather than help prevent them. Where bystanders stand idle rather than intervene. Where comfort and safety often trump moral obligation.
True courage isn’t about fearlessness – it’s about acting despite your fear. The firefighters climbing the stairs of the Twin Towers were terrified, I’m certain. But they climbed anyway.
When I was in the streets of New York on 09/11/2001, I remember the wailing sirens of fire trucks and police cruisers. These firefighters and police officers ran to the fire.
This willingness to face danger for the sake of others represents humanity at its finest. It transcends political divides, cultural differences, and personal gain. It speaks to something fundamental about who we can be at our best.
Cultivating Gratitude
In times of tragedy and division, gratitude can be a powerful force. I’m making a conscious choice to focus on gratitude for the lifeguards among us:
- Gratitude for the first responders on 9/11
- Gratitude for those who stand up for their beliefs with respect and dignity
- Gratitude for everyday heroes who step in when others step back
This gratitude doesn’t erase the pain of loss or the anger at injustice. Rather, it exists alongside these emotions, providing balance and perspective. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, human courage shines through.
The question I find myself asking – and that I pose to you – is simple but profound: Who are you grateful for? Who are the lifeguards in your life? Those people who have run toward your fires when it would have been easier to walk away?
Perhaps more importantly, are you cultivating the courage to be a lifeguard for others? In a world that often rewards self-preservation and caution, choosing to run toward danger for the sake of others is revolutionary.
I believe we need more lifeguards now than ever before. More people willing to put themselves at risk – whether physically, socially, or professionally – to protect others and stand for what’s right. Their example inspires me, challenges me, and gives me hope that our capacity for courage and sacrifice remains strong.
