New kinds of heroics need to be celebrated - like love, thoughtfulness, forgiveness, diplomacy - or we're not going to get there.

In this quote, Patty Jenkins, the acclaimed director known for films like Wonder Woman, argues that the traditional concept of heroism needs to be redefined. She suggests that new forms of heroics—such as love, thoughtfulness, forgiveness, and diplomacy—should be celebrated and valued in society. Jenkins points out that these qualities, though often overlooked in traditional narratives of heroism, are essential for resolving conflicts and building a better, more compassionate world.

Jenkins is advocating for a shift in how we define heroes. Traditionally, heroism has been associated with physical feats or battles, but she stresses that the emotional and relational aspects of heroism, such as empathy, understanding, and the ability to forgive, are just as crucial. These qualities enable individuals to overcome the more complex, intangible challenges in life, such as personal conflicts, societal divisions, and global issues.

By emphasizing diplomacy alongside love and forgiveness, Jenkins points to the importance of peaceful resolutions and constructive dialogue in addressing conflict. In a world often marked by division and confrontation, she suggests that cultivating these more thoughtful forms of heroism is key to achieving progress and peace. Her call to celebrate these virtues reflects her belief that society can evolve by embracing these powerful, yet sometimes overlooked, forms of leadership.

Ultimately, Jenkins’ quote serves as a call to action for shifting the focus of admiration in society. Instead of glorifying traditional, combative forms of heroism, she advocates for the recognition of qualities that promote compassion, understanding, and peace—traits that are necessary to move forward in a more harmonious and just world.