Everyday Role Models
And The Winner Is…
It seems there is no shortage of award shows. The Grammys, the Oscars, the Emmys, the ESPYs, and the list goes on. Often during their acceptance speeches, the recipients acknowledge their role models. People who, over the years, have helped mold them into the person they are today. Some will say that their greatest role model was their father or their mother. Others will say that their greatest role model was an athlete or a celebrity.
Not My Role, Not My Model
I was twenty-six the last time I spoke to my father. I was about forty-six the last time I spoke to my mother. Not bragging or complaining. Just saying, that for a litany of reasons, neither comes to mind when I consider my role models. I can likewise honestly attest that I have never been inspired by the likes of Kobe Bryant or Kim Kardashian. Nor have I been inspired by the likes of Lance Armstrong or Paris Hilton.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I know that there are many parents who have been first-class role models. For their children and oftentimes for the children of others. And I am sure that there are many athletes and celebrities who have inspired countless others. Inspired them to achieve their own greatness.
But as for me, my greatest role models are everyday people doing everyday things. They mold us and inspire us, not by performing heroic feats and not by teaching profound lessons. More often than not, it’s the simplest of acts performed in the simplest of ways. These small life lessons have nurtured and challenged us to be the best that we can be.
I’d Like To Thank…
I know that I’ll never have the privilege to receive a Grammy or an Oscar. Or any other similar prestigious award. But if I did, I know exactly who I would thank. I know exactly who I do thank. Right after thanking my wife, of course, I would thank a very small list. A very small list of everyday role models. Leading by example, doing simple things in simple ways, each and every day.
Who would you thank? Who do you thank for doing simple things in simple ways, each and every day?