This whole Caitlyn Jenner story has everybody talking. Some people are supportive, some people are unsupportive and others are downright angry and hateful. The thing that bugged me most about it is how people went on social media and bashed other people for calling her a hero. People were posting her picture next to a photo of a soldier in uniform saying how can we call Caitlyn Jenner a hero, this soldier is a hero? I agree that soldier is a hero, but so is Caitlyn — just in a different way.

We need to remember that there are all kinds of people who are heroes for different reasons. I’m involved in animal rescue. I always say “be a hero, rescue a pet who needs a home”.  I say that because when you take an animal in and give it love and respect you are a hero to that animal! You are that animals’ soldier. You have given it another chance and you have made its life better. Caitlyn Jenner is a soldier for those who struggle with sexuality or gender identity — by coming out and being visible and vocal she shows others who are struggling that they are not alone. Some people may feel so isolated and sad that they contemplate suicide or even commit suicide because they see no other way.

Caitlyn Jenner and all of us who proudly stand in our truth are heroes to those who want to but are scared. We show them it’s okay and it will get better! So, yes, soldiers are heroes, but that doesn’t mean they are the only heroes — even you can be a hero to someone. Let’s not say the word hero is “thrown around too much”, let’s just all live up to the word and try our best to be someone’s hero!