Superheroes in Real Life

     There are real people who dress up in costumes to do good and fight crime. It's hard to say what drives them or keeps them going. Why do they put themselves at such risk while looking slightly crazy? The answer is different for each, but comes down to wanting to do some good in the world. There's something to admire about wanting to change the world so much that you dedicate significant time and energy to changing it. And there is something inherently fun about putting on a costume.

     Perhaps it is the costume itself that convinces them to continue the endless struggle against despair and darkness?

     Real life superheroes have different levels of involvement and different goals for their lives and actions. Some of them are truly inspiring, and I am glad to be in a world where people are willing to take risks to do the right thing. I would like to highlight a few of them now.

     The Dark Guardian operates in Manhattan, and faces down drug dealers and muggers. In San Diego, there's Mr. Extreme. He dons protective gear and and arms himself with handcuffs, pepper spray, and a taser. He has been the source of several citizen's arrests in his crimefighting career.

     There's Black Arrow, in the United Kingdom. She serves justice. She gives advice and guidance to those in need. The Queen of Hearts champions against domestic violence in Jackson, Michigan.

     In Seattle there is Phoenix Jones, a man in a decent and functional outfit. He has armor plating on his costume and is a professional MMA Fighter. He has been arrested at least once, and has been talked to by police who were concerned about his efforts. He's also been a force that stands against crime when the cops have not been around. And he leads the Rain City Superhero movement, to which one must have military or mixed martial arts training to join.

     Please, to all the real life superheroes. Consider that you are human. Not only might you get hurt, you could make a mistake and hurt innocent people. For everyone's sake, be careful while you are out there. And thank you for keeping hope alive.