The Simplicity of Being A Role Model

Everywhere you look, you see great people doing great things. They shine and bring honor to their families, school, and even to their countries—but we choose not see that. We choose to ignore the many accomplishments being done; hence, we are never satisfied with anyone’s performance. If they can’t be role models, how much harder is it for a normal person?

There are many people worth being role models. But who among us is righteous enough to be considered fitting as a role model? The concept of being such changes from time to time, differs from place to place, and varies from one’s perception to another.
For example, Kim Jong Il, North Korea’s dictator, has been ruling the country for quite a long time. He is mocked by many other world leaders and deemed crazy by many critics. It is difficult for me to think that some people actually look up to his style of leadership.
Come to think of it, even a thief such as Robin Hood was an idol. He was seen as a dreadful person by those he was stealing from, but a hero to those whom he helped. After all, doesn’t a coin have two sides?
Let’s not look far. Even in my circle of friends, there are people worth looking up to. I know someone who may be annoyingly geeky to others, but is overly good in every aspect to me.
The picture is that the criteria are not universal. It varies. But then, I think you don’t need to be popular, rich, powerful, or intelligent. It is just a matter of touching one’s life to be a genuine role model. It is to have a sincere connection to the heart of others. To be a true role model is to inspire someone else to be a better person.
It is in fact amazing how much even the little things, like acts of kindness and gestures of care, can help someone—most especially when that someone is going through tough times. The essence of being a role model is measured not so much by the position you have reached and the status you have gained, it is by how deep your life has touched another human’s life.
We see acts of kindness and acts of compassion every day. If we only choose to acknowledge them and show a little act of kindness ourselves, this world will be a better place. Thus, to those of you who are performing small deeds, do not be discouraged by the abuse of the selfish. Do not be deterred by people who refuse to acknowledge your goodness. Continue touching people’s lives. Continue being who you are.
There is a role model in all of us. It’s just a matter of perspective before we know how much we’ve changed the world. You might not know it yet, but as I speak, someone is looking up to you and wanting to be like you.

**Published in The Knight, 2010