I met heroes

“Heroes aren’t born, but they are created in times of strife and struggle. Everyone is capable of being a hero in their own way, often without even knowing it, they are a hero to those around them.” ~ Unknown

Meet Eugene

Eugene bikes for 25 to 29 kilometres 4 times a week- given it doesn’t rain.  He hauls his bike from Imus Cavite to Makati City and back twice a week and from Imus to a hospital in Dasmarinas Cavite twice a week.  

“How long does it take you to reach your destination?”, I asked.

“Around an hour”, he nonchalantly replied as though moving through Manila’s and Cavite's traffic in 2 wheels is the easiest thing in the world.

He confided that at the start, he was merely traversing a distance of 700 meters ( which took him around 2 minutes) and then he gradually increased this distance.  Now, he could easily manage 60 kilometres in a day ( 3-5 hours including the rest time ).

Why did you start biking?, I continued to inquire.

“Initially, it was for health reasons.  I used to jog and thought of trying out biking.  Also, I wanted to avoid the traffic and decrease my transportation cost”, he said.

“Then, I heard of the climate change issue and I included it in my reasons.”

“How did you make shift?”, I prodded.

“It was hard to adjust my routine initially 

(I used to drive around the metro.) but I saw benefits- improved health, less expense and help to the environment.”

Like a staunch advocate that he is, he raised both hands, stomped his feet and bellowed, “Bike is life!” 

Meet Marra

“I became more open to a lifestyle change because of yoga.  It taught me how to live simply.”, confided Marra a 1 year old pescetarian.

“How did you start?,” I asked.

“I started letting go of meat when I attended a yoga retreat for a weekend where we were only served vegan food.”

“Initially, I was wary of the diet because of my active lifestyle.  I run marathons and I thought I need meat to sustain my fitness regimen.”

“Actually, I feel lighter now.  In fact, my performance improved after 

I changed my diet.”

“Why are you still at it?”, I queried.

“For good health.  Then, I became more conscious when I watched the 'Cowspiracy' documentary. I was shocked to know that our food supply is responsible for a big percentage of carbon emission which causes climate change."

According to the documentary, animal agriculture is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions, more than the combined exhaust from all transportation.

“What’s your understanding of climate change?”, I followed up.

“Climate change is the end of the world.” (if we don’t do anything about it)

The Hotseat 

Whether you admit it or not, you have the capacity to be a hero too.  The question is,  “Are you willing to change so that you can save the world?”.

I know CHANGE is a big word.  Just as Eugene and Marra attest- it’s not easy but if your why is bigger than your excuses then it can be done.  

How about starting with a step?  Just think of 1 thing you can do to better yourself and the world and then start it this very second.

P.S.  I would love to hear how it goes for you.

P.P.S.  When I say you, I’m addressing myself as well.

video from Release Your Wings