Most, if not all, superheroes and I have many things in common: we’re only children, we fight for justice, and we’re usually the odd man (or woman) out.  There is nothing conventional about our existence and most of the time we like it that way.

Wardrobe is another thing we have in common.  Although I can’t pull off spandex as successfully as they do, all of us own the same accessory: a mask.  Batman prefers a mask with pointy ears, Spiderman prefers a full body mask, and Superman opts for nerdy chic.

Even though our masks look different, we’re all covering the same things.  We mask fear, loneliness, rejection, and sometimes the heartache that comes with unrequited love.  It is by no means an easy path to walk, especially if your true self becomes exposed to the world.

Batman may be a badass but he’s got his hang ups too.  Witnessing the untimely death of his parents sent him on a lifelong path for revenge.  Sure, he may rescue a few people along the way, but seeking revenge for his pain and loss is his true motivation for defeating the bad guys.  His battles have little to do with the common folk of Gotham City.

Spiderman’s motives for battle are a little more pure and much more relatable.  He was the kid who battled rejection and bullies long before he was bitten by a radioactive spider.  The unique thing about Peter Parker is that he can use his superpowers without his suit.  However, the power of confidence is lost on him if he’s not donning his spidey spandex.

And while I admit that I have a particular fondness for Superman, he’s one superhero who seems to have his priorities in order.  The difference between him and everyone else is that his strength is found when he removes his mask.  When Clark Kent throws down his glasses, it’s on!

Superman has weaknesses; he’s experienced loneliness, loss, fear, rejection, and is often judged for his exterior.  He’s dealt with people who only seem to call him when they need something, but he’s also encountered real love with a few close friends and family.

The reason this man of steel has been able to keep it together and focus on the task at hand is because he knows who he is.  Most people see him as the awkward, bumbling, journalist Clark Kent meanwhile he knows his inner superhero is just a phone booth spin away.  Confidence is his strength and the superpowers are just amenities.

I’m sure I will always battle fears and insecurities of the superhero variety – some battles just won’t end.  My best defense, however, will be taking off my mask and walking in the confidence that who I am is stronger and more powerful than anything the world would try to throw at me.

Now if only my confidence could help squeeze me into some super tights…