Viva la Lance

What is a hero? According to "Webster's Dictionary," the definition of a hero is someone who is noted for their feats of courage or notability that serves a higher purpose in society. Pretty clear if you ask me; yet the term hero seems to be misused greatly by our generation, especially in the world of sports. Surprisingly, it seems everyone with an endorsement deal is a role model, which forces me back to my original question, "What exactly is a hero?"\nI bring this up because this past weekend one of the truly greatest athletes, maybe the greatest of this generation, added yet another chapter of dominance to his storied comeback against all odds, while another brushed against the wrong side of the law. American cyclist Lance Armstrong made headlines when he wrapped up his record-tying fifth consecutive Tour de France. The other, L.A. Lakers star Kobe Bryant, was charged with sexual assault. Both of these men have been placed on pedestals by millions of their followers; however, after this weekend, the term hero needs to be strongly reserved for those who truly deserve it. \nA hero is a model for excellence -- an individual who is willing to go that extra mile to make a difference. In the case of an athlete, it is one who contributes to the greater cause on -- but most importantly, off -- the field of play. Armstrong certainly personifies these attributes as an individual that everyone should try and emulate due to his advancement and awareness in cancer research. Back in 1996, Armstrong underwent months of intense chemotherapy to cure himself of the testicular cancer that already had spread throughout his body, including to his lungs and brain. Many questioned whether he even would live, let alone make a triumphant return to win one of the most grueling races in the world. As impressive as his feats are, what makes Armstrong a hero is that his victory serves as an inspiration on a large scale.\nArmstrong showed the world, but more importantly survivors of cancer, that one could overcome any obstacle if one is willing to sacrifice mind, body and soul. Instead of promoting his celebrity status to sell Nike apparel, Armstrong uses his eminence to raise an understanding on important social issues. This ability to help others in need makes him a true hero, something that today's young athletes seemingly lack.\nWhether they embrace the ideas, athletes have an unspoken responsibility to serve as role models. They are embraced by millions as someone to look up to; yet high-caliber athletes nowadays are being seen tackled in the courtroom instead of in the stadium. I'm not saying that Bryant is a bad person, because until this point he exemplified a model athlete. He dazzled on the court as well as off by donating millions of dollars to inner-city youth programs. However, what Bryant did is not a slap on the wrist type of crime like stirring a ruckus at a nightclub or the unlawful use of alcohol. The charges brought on by Bryant damage his role model status, something he took pride in. \n Adultery is not unlawful only by the oaths he took, but by the moral standards of mankind. I know that people make mistakes, and I accept the fact that no one is perfect. However, Bryant made the wrong choice and now will get what he deserves. \nSociety needs role models because these individuals rise above the rest. They serve as inspiration and set standards that others hope eventually to achieve. More importantly though, these people make a difference in the community to those who need it most and make the public more aware of what is really important. \nThat's what a hero is to me.