It seems that the term role model has become a bad word.  “Parents shouldn’t expect teachers to be role models.”  “Your child should not look up to celebrities as role models”.  “I am not a role model”.  These are all phrases that I have been hearing more and more, but I still believe in role models.  Here’s the thing. We have to understand that no one is perfect, and human beings are complicated.  You will never be inspired by 100% of any one person’s actions or character traits.  We are all flawed.  We all make mistakes.  A role model is not someone who you should seek to become, but someone whose experiences and accomplishments can serve as direction and inspiration for you. We should understand this, and make sure that our children understand this. 

Why are people so resistant to being role models?  It’s a lofty title to hold.  It takes a special person to willingly offer direction to someone else. It’s noble.  Some are hesitant to offer themselves as role models because, frankly, they don’t feel worthy.  It’s great to be honest about your limitations, but we shouldn’t be so hard on ourselves.  You may be in a situation where you’re still figuring out one area of life, but you may have had an accomplishment that can be that beacon of hope for someone else. Role models don’t have it all figured out. No one does.

I am inspired by many people, some famous, some not so famous.  Do they have flaws? Yes, but it’s their ability to achieve despite obstacles that I am inspired by.  Here are a few of my role models.

What are your thoughts on role models? Are you ok with being a role model? I look forward to your comments.Antoinette

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