The one about superpowers

Let's talk about strength and capability

It is time to ask the big question. If you could have any superpower, what would you pick? And before you answer, let’s ask a side question: how far can we stretch superpower? Because I’ve seen a mother wrestle three children into a three-door car and prayed for such endurance. A baker told me the story of how he woke up at 3 a.m. every single morning to be ready for the breakfast rush before a thirteen-hour shift, and not even my dreams could conjure such determination. I still see flight as a magic trick. Every time I see a plane, my eyes itch to remind me I’m allergic to rabbits. I feel that there is so much we take for granted, and we fail to step back and appreciate the magnitude of the little things.

Superpower is often spoken like a distant thing, but I believe it is here within arms reach. I have seen acts of kindness so strong they could lift buildings. Incredible Hulk renews his gym subscription at the thought of all the burdens we carry. The sun sweats when it comes face to face with our resilience. There is also something miraculous about simple acts, such as a hug. There are people with arms that wrap around you and quiet the wildest storms. Some are blessed with the ability to know what to say at all times to lift the anvil from atop your chest. So I ask again when I say superpower, how far are its borders?

I guess I am asking what is there about human that isn't already super? From the held doors to the smiles shared between strangers. To the nod and wink communicated across a crowded room that screams, 'I believe in you!' To being believed, to believing, to being loved, and being fortunate enough to love. What is more powerful than being able to reach in and tear the sadness away from somebody? Even if only for a moment. The way I can communicate with you no matter where you are in the world is a superpower. The way the morning holds its breath sometimes is a superpower. Our survival through heartbreak and hardship is a superpower. You waking up is a superpower.

So, instead of asking. If you could have any superpower, what would you pick? I will ask, what superpowers do you already possess? What strength within you doesn't get enough applause? I am no scientist, but I can guarantee you are comprised of 96.7% superpower. Every smile, every thank you, every can I help you? All superpowers. Flying isn't all about skies, and mind reading is sometimes reading the spaces between the thoughts. And you might not be able to lift cars with your mind, but you can still save the world with it. And frankly, you can do anything if you believe enough. Belief is the strongest superpower I know.