Heroes are often of the everyday variety, probably found outside politics more often than inside, at least in the last century or so.
Brendan Burke is a hero of mine. I'll mention in passing I'm a straight guy, for reasons to be clear.
I am in love with the sport of hockey. Mad love.
Hockey is an intensely physical game.
Brendan Burke grew up in hockey, the son of Brian Burke, arguably the most famous General Manager in recent NHL history and a true "tough guy."
And, Brendan Burke was gay.
Two months ago, Brendan came out of the closet. He showed mad bravery to do this:
The best sportswriting I've ever read
Brendan's famous father expressed unconditional love for his son in the most public way:
An interview broadcast across Canada
Yesterday, Brendan was killed in a car crash in Indiana, trying to navigate a brutal snowstorm. At 21 years, his life was short, but it had extraordinary meaning for many people.
We have the time to make a difference.