A Hidden, Heroic Act: A Rare Fact About Myself
I am not in the inside what I look like on the outside. Only two people in my life know this—my late mother and another special person whose name I carry on my neck. This story is a hidden, rare fact that I seldom share. However, today, I believe there is something to be said about the ordinary moments that can turn into extraordinary actions.
A Life-Altering Moment
It was a long-ago Sunday afternoon when I was about 33 years old. My wife, and our three young sons and baby daughter were enjoying a picnic by the river, where people go to swim. We had a large beach towel to set by the water. Suddenly, we heard screams from the people standing on the riverbank and they were pointing towards the waterfall area. Panicked, I saw two young children bobbing up and down in the deep water. My mind raced—why was no one jumping in to help?
I did not hesitate. I did not even think as I jumped into the water and swam towards the falls as fast as I could. I was the furthest away, and already exhausted by the time I reached the falls. Underwater, I dived and got under the two kids, carrying one on each shoulder. It felt like an eternity before my feet touched the ground again, and I could catch my breath. I made it to our beach towel, and I flopped down, exhausted. Only then did the children's mother come over and thank me for saving her children.
Heroism in the Shadows
No one knew about that day except the people standing on the riverbank, my wife, and Almighty God. It was a selfless act, a moment that defined a hero. Though I seldom speak about it, this incident means a lot to me. It reminds me that every ordinary moment can turn into an extraordinary action, and it’s the incredible moments in life that can change us forever.
One thing that brought me great comfort during that time was the realization that the act was not in vain; the mother's gratitude for saving her children made the moment all the more impactful. I carry that feeling of self-sacrifice and the sense of purpose it brought me close to my heart, a reminder of the true essence of heroism.