What does the word "hero" mean to you?
I've been pushing one definition for quite some time now:
A hero takes personal risks for the common good.
It's a classic definition, rooted in the traditions of cultures around the world. Yet we keep calling ball players and actors and musicians "heroes." Can you think of any such people who are risking anything for the common good? We've honored a few as Giraffe Heroes, not for their careers but for their actual heroism. Try our profile of defensive back Mel Blount to see what I mean.