Let us define “Hero.”

The first image that comes to mind, for many, is the archetypal leotard-clad, brightly colored, masked, muscular and mysterious man (or woman) who flies, by sheer will, to the rescue of everyday citizens, with large cape dancing in the wind. Have you ever worn a cape on a windy day? This, I believe, is the only flaw with the image of the hero, for such a person should not want to be encumbered by a piece of free-flowing garment. But that is just me… and I digress, somewhat.

Culturally, the hero is someone we look up to; someone who has overcome the fears of the world and who has developed strength and character beyond what we perceive to be our own abilities. The Hero is someone else. In psychology and personal development, however, we are encouraged to see the hero as an integral part of who we are or can become. It is not about saving others. It is about being the master of our own destiny. The image of the hero and his or her attributes, then, become guidelines for personal growth.

Where does canning fit in all of this? I am suggesting that canning is a personal development tool. I am further suggesting that the person who practices food preserving shares strong common traits with the hero archetype. In other words, not only are we what we eat, but we are also our own hero.

The hero is confident. There is no doubt about that. Superman does not weigh the pros and cons when facing a situation; he just runs to the phone booth, changes into his hero attire and dives in. He takes matters into his own hands. Canning is like this. With canning, you take the process of creating food and sustainability into your own hands from start to finish. If you are new to canning, you may have already noticed how “on purpose” you have felt while setting up your equipment, gathering produce and following through every step of the process. Did you not feel like you were the master of that moment? Remember this the next time you doubt your own abilities… and if you tend to doubt your own abilities, start canning so you can prove yourself wrong.

The hero lives by high standards. Cutting corners is not an option (especially when you wear that darn cape and it might get stuck on the corner). When he or she flies into a situation, the hero stays as long as it takes to see things through. His entire focus is on the moment and on the most positive outcome for all involved. Canning is like this. It requires a plan, organization, cleanliness and adherence to basic rules. The laws of physics apply everywhere. For the hero, a rotten attitude will yield rotten results. When canning and preserving, sloppiness leads to rotten results. High standards ensure a smooth path and a perfect outcome. Since you are creating this outcome with your own two hands, you have got a lot of your values invested into it. This is why, you might find, you feel so much love for the process.

The hero sees clearly through difficult times. This is because she knows her values and experience can and will prevail. The hero need not worry about the future, because he has created a track record of success for himself, overcoming one hurdle after another, taking a stance, acting on it and watching solutions unfold, almost of their own volition. Canning is like this. Not only does it ensure sustenance for weeks and months to come, but it reminds you of your talent for building your tomorrows and it reminds you of your innate intelligence about taking care of yourself and loved ones.

The hero is attractive. I am not referring to their hundreds, even thousands of fans, I am referring to the hero’s effortless magnetism. True heroes have humility. What is more humble than food preserving? It is the hero’s confidence and humility that truly connects him with others. The hero is not so much fearless about evil or the world or the power of nature; she is fearless about her connection to fellow humans. This is what allows her to approach any situation. Canning is like this.

Ho! But I am a shy, solitary person, you might suggest. That may be true, but watch what happens when you have made your first batch of raspberry preserves or pickles. You will find yourself standing in the kitchen, admiring the fruit of your labor and feeling connected with the world in a subtle yet undeniable way. Before you know it, you’ll be walking across the street with that jar in your hand, maybe even a couple more, to knock on the neighbor’s door and say, “Here. I just finished canning these and I thought I’d bring you some.” After a brief chat, you will walk away knowing that the world is a fantastic place.

Thus are the adventures of the canning hero… no leotards or cape required, but I suppose you can do as you please in your own kitchen and I don’t need to know… please!

Happy canning!