A New Standard for Heroism

Thanks to people I don't know, when I see wreckage of the World Trade Towers and the Pentagon, I no longer see only devastation, death, anger, and despair.. In the weeks since the horror of September 11, I've come to see the mass grave as a source of inspiration; a reservoir of courage and strength; and a beacon of hope for the future of man and the free world.

From the crumbled remains of two towering infernos, from the ashes of the more than 5,000 victims and through the tears of the people they left behind, I am witnessing a resolve and determination that only comes from people who covet freedom and are moved to action through strength, faith and hope.

The devastation of the World Trade Towers encompasses 16 acres of land. But piece by piece, bucket by bucket, hard-working Americans are clearing the ruins. Hope and determination are growing, quickly and strongly, from war zone. And I can't imagine seeing that sort of transformation and persistence anyplace else on this earth than the United States of America.

I am inspired by a new standard for heroism -- a bar set nearly out of reach by those who put themselves in harm's way on September 11, 2001 and who died trying to save others. These people knew heroism. Even more, they knew hope. They went into crumbling buildings, they fought hijackers, and they administered first aid on the street, all because they had hope. Had they given into fear, many people wouldn't have been saved. And the psyche of our nation wouldn't have the inspiration that we have taken from them and that we are using to rebuild our faith and our resolve.

I've done many things in my life; I've scaled mountains and gone to faraway places, literally and figuratively - that I never dreamed. Still, I want to be like these heroes. I want to be strong in my faith and act without fear with complete trust in God, to do well solely for others. I think each of us as parents, teachers, community leaders, pastors, clergy, friends and citizens, need to look at this as a new standard and as a calling: the heroism of altruism, of courage and compassion. Like Daniel in the lion's den as described in the Bible, we have been called by God to have faith in Him, to be courageous, and to use our God-given gifts for a greater good.

I am eternally grateful to the heroes of September 11. Because of them, I'm able to see hope when I look at the smoldering ashes of New York City. Because of them, I'm reminded of the strength of the human spirit and of my faith in Jesus Christ. And because of them, this nation will again laugh and prosper. May God bless them. And may God bless America.

Isaiah41:10Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

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Rich DeVos is chairman of Gospel Communications. He is also the author of "Hope From My Heart:Ten Lessons for Life," co-founder of Amway Corp., and owner and chairman of the NBA's Orlando Magic.