The 30th century, had the Legion of Substitute Heroes. Chlorophyll Kid was one of my favorites. I liked his powers. I thought controlling plant growth was fun. What I liked the most about him was that he was overweight. He and Bouncing Boy (from the Legion of Superheroes) were both overweight and were superheroes. I felt a strong connection to them because I was weight. It felt good to see myself in comics as a superhero surrounded by other heroes and there was no body shaming.

Did Something Right

“It’s nice to know that I FINALLY did something right!” - Chlorophyll Kid*

Some Superheroes cannot control their powers but they still try to do their best. Ral Benem, Chlorophyll Kid, from the planet Mardru, fell into a vat of planet stimulating serum and gain the ability control planets. However he cannot control his abilities. When the 30th Century Legion of Superheroes was accepting applicants Ral auditioned and failed. But he did not let that stop him. Along with Polar Boy, Night Girl, Stone Boy, Fire Lad and himself, Chlorophyll Lad, created the Legion of Substitute Heroes, to help when ever needed. No matter how much they failed, and probably caused more trouble that good, they continued to do what was right.

We make mistakes all the time. Some days feel as if all we do is make mistakes. Do we let that bother us – NO! Sometimes the mistakes are HUGE and some amends need to be made. Its best to remember all the things we’ve done that are right. When a mistake is made, do the necessary repairs and move forward. Remember a positive attitude will bring positive results. Don’t forget that sometimes a mistake can have a positive result. We make mistakes to grow and move forward.

Chlorophyll Kid
First Appearance: “The Legion of Substitute Heroes!” Adventure Comics #306, March 1963

Creators: Edmond Hamilton (script), and John Forte (art)

* “Secret Origins: Featuring the Legion of Substitute Heroes”, #37 (Feb 1989), DC Comics