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Like many other people who enjoy superhero stories, I’ve often thought about what superpower I’d like to have. Some of my favorites include intangibility at will, psychic powers, and rapid regeneration. But there’s one that rises to the top every time my imagination treads this path – the ability to heal others.
But then I think some more about it…
What would life be like if I had that ability? I would feel compelled to heal as many people as possible. I’d feel guilty when I rested or took any time for myself because I’d know there’s someone I could be helping. Since there’s no shortage of sick and injured people, how would I prioritize who I help first? Those closest to death? Those nearest to me? Those in an area where illness is most concentrated so I can help the greatest numbers? Would people hate me because I didn’t get to their loved one in time? I’ve not come up with good answers to these questions.
It makes me glad I’m merely human. Sometimes it’s important to appreciate the things you don’t have.
What about you? What are your dream superpowers? Would you feel strongly motivated to do the most good? Would that responsibility be too much?
Speaking of superhero stories, there are a couple of excellent podcast novels that explore the genre in interesting ways. The first is Brave Men Run by Matthew Wayne Selznick. It’s the most realistic depiction of what the world would be like if super-powered humans began revealing themselves told from the perspective of high school aged boy just coming into his own. The second is How to Succeed in Evil by Patrick E. Mclean. This podcast novel had me laughing out loud more than I have listening to any other novel yet managed to be quite thought-provoking at the same time.
Did I mention both are available for free? Seriously, give them both a listen – they’re well worth it.
I am with you Sid.. healing would be the gift that I would want. Did I say gift? I meant super-power
two words: ice breath
The power for unlimited time. I think this could manifest as the ability to slow/speed up time if I concentrated hard enough or being able to live for a very long time. I know it has it’s downsides too..like losing loved ones while I remained alive. But would the experiences I’d gain be worth that price?
I had a friend in college who always answered complete invulnerability since in a world where super powers suddenly appeared he reasoned there would be a lot of folks out to kill you (primarily gov’t forces). I’m not so sure he’s far wrong. That’s why I echo your love for Brave Men Run.
In all seriousness though I think something really subtle and low powered would be the way for me. I’ve always loved the idea of a power of Luck. If i could influence probability subtly like Black Cat both for myself and others and in both directions (make things more or less probable) that would be pretty awesome. That and x-ray vision.
Green lantern ring aka the power to manifest my will even if only temporary.
Let’s not forget another interesting turn on superpowers Mighty Mur Lafferty and Playing for Keeps.
Invisibility, you could do so much with it. if not mind control.
Cool article way to get you thinking.
Thanks for the comments, everyone.
@Kansas Bob: Would you find the sense of moral responsibility overwhelming with that power too?
@chopdeli: Ice breath sounds like it would be just pure fun – no sticky ethical dilemma that I can see.
@Bunnies4Buddha: I’ve fantasized about time manipulation often as well; usual when I’m dead-tired at work. I’d couple the ability to summon my bed with stopping time, I think.
@Scott Roche: Invisibility by itself sounds good at first, but has some problems, I think. You’d be physically safe, but if anyone wanted to harm you, they could simply trap you or harm/kidnap a loved one. Without another power, you’d still be helpless. A subtle one like luck is great idea though. Considering my life so far, I think I may already have that one.
@Rich Asplund Jr: I’m actually not familiar with the Green Lantern, so I don’t really know what to say. I actually haven’t listened Lafferty’s Playing for Keeps, so I couldn’t recommend it yet. From the promos I’ve heard, though, it seem like it’s going to be really good. I’ll definitely check it out at some point.
@jonathan: With invisibility, I worry about the lack of accountability. How long would I be able to resist the temptation to use the power for selfish reasons.
all i want is just not getting old
I wouldn’t want healing for the same reason’s you stated above. I think mind control would be my choice, or indestructability (that would help with my klutziness).
I think something really subtle and low powered would be the way for me.
Being a naughty boy I think I’ll take invisibility. Hehehe
“Considering my life so far, I think I may already have that one.”
Well you’ve had the good luck to find me.
Hi Sid,
This is a nice thought. What’s nicer is the realisation that if endowed with super powers, people would usually use it to do good
Well I believe all of us have the divine nature to help and heal others. It’s just a matter of letting it show.
Invisibility or teleportation for sure.
I cannot believe not one of you has mentioned being able to fly. What I would give to be able to fly at will. sometimes I think about the ability to stop time, but then my mind starts getting into the “what if’s”, like will I continue to age, and if I used my power all the time, will I age faster than everyone else…
Hmmm. there are soo many that i want… But i think flying totally.
Nice topic….well if i will be asked then i would love to take the super power of flying in the air. I want to visit every continent so if i could fly then i would be able to reach everywhere faster.
Whoever said “not get old” said it best!
I am with you Sid.. healing would be the gift that I would want. Did I say gift? I meant super-power
I’ve always wanted to be able to save lives too and even though I know the disadvantages, I think I still would wish to heal people.
The only super power that I need is the one off miraculous event to turn into Chuck Norris. If I was a Chuck clone then the world would have no problems – it wouldn’t dare.
I would have the superpower to exhibit any superpower(s) at will.