Literature, history, and entertainment have elevated individuals, both human as well as fictionalized, to characterize the attributes of those of a hero: bravery, integrity, an indomitable will and the drive to accomplish great deeds. From the Greek legends that a hero was an individual of more than human qualities and favored by the gods like Hercules and Achilles, to today’s surrealistic costumed actors at whom many marvel, the concept of a true hero can sometimes be so emblazoned by theatrics and poetic historical renditions that it feels out of reach or even beyond human.
Maya Angelou said, “I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.”
Christopher Reeve explained, “I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”
Diving deeper, the Dalai Lama shared “The true hero is one who conquers his own anger and hatred.”
With human challenges coming in waves that feel like a never-ending ocean storm, from pandemics and subsequent life disruptions to a grotesque affront on humanity in Ukraine to threats of food shortages and rising costs, many hope that heroes will come forward to confront these overwhelming conflicts and steady the ship of humanity. If one was to only listen to the media constantly blaring reports of disruption, you could think that heroism has expired or become as outdated as a rolodex or horse and buggies.
The good news is that there are heroes in every walk of life. And the true hero is not beyond human. It is in fact, within each of us. From the family who provides endless care for their challenged daughter, to the first responders who never shirk from danger to the farmers who risk their lives to ensure the grains needed for vital nutrients are harvested and sent to the millers.
Recently at Natural Product Expo West, shared by 60,000 very happy manufacturers, attendees, investors, and support service providers, there was another group of future heroes and heroines. It was the new entrepreneurs, young and old, who jumped out of their comfort zones to research and develop new solutions to make life better. There were new ingredients from regenerative farms, like A3’s Aronia Berry from North Dakota and organic mushroom powders, vertically farmed in California by Sempera. There was an exciting new beverage whose ingredient was from the coffee fruit, cascara, called Riff and Foods from an ancient South American Arepa recipe reimagined into crackers that will be quite a Craize.
These entrepreneurs are heroes and will continue to expand their impact as they persevere, overcome the obstacles of growth, respect their supply chain both upstream as well as downstream, appreciate all who help along the way and appreciate the honor as well as responsibilities associated with success.
Christie & Co was once honored with the moniker of Champions of Purpose, as our entire team is dedicated to helping heroes whose positive impact in multiple sectors of life succeed, be heard and lead. We are always looking for those who would like to evolve and win, and join with all the others who persevered and could be deemed heroes. The world needs you. We are here to help.
– Gillian