Recently, I was asked who my role models were. I froze in place, unsure of what to say. Several people came to mind, but I wasn't positive they were truly role models. I wasn't even sure if they fit the criteria for who one should desire to be like. While these questions raced through my head, I realized something even more troubling: I had no idea what role models even were.
What did it mean to have a role model? Did it mean you worshiped their every move? Did it mean that you wanted to be exactly like them when you were older? Did it mean their very existence inspired your own? For some people, this may have been the case, but for others, they may felt as if they had no role models. This was me several weeks ago upon being asked, but as I sat back and thought about it, being a role model didn't mean these things. Having a role model - or role models - wasn't about worshiping another person or wishing I was them; it was about having someone(s) who I respected and wanted to liken myself unto.
Now, as I think about it, I know who my role models are. Some of these people were who I had originally thought of, but others were those who I had just recently thought of while writing this article. Either way, these people are remarkable in many ways and I strive to achieve great things like they have. I don't wish to actually be these people, because I don't believe that that is what having a role model is truly about. A role model is someone who you admire and appreciate - they don't even have to be real - they just have to be special to you.
For as long as I can remember, I've been listening to Alicia's beautiful music. Her excellent vocals and piano skills have inspired me to improve my own. She is a remarkable woman and I hope to be able to spread a message through music like she has.
Real or not, Hermione Granger is one awesome character. The qualities and traits she possesses are ones I wish hope to have or want to strengthen. She is knowledgeable, an amazing friend, clever, and brave. J. K. Rowling created a wonderful character for us all to use as an example of how a strive to do the right thing pays off.
Amae is a wonderful role model! She is kind, helpful to writers, and truly loves the Times. I can tell that she is very dedicated to her job through her article ideas, critiquing, and encouraging BBS comments. I am thankful for her service to the Times and I hope that when I am older I can help others with writing like she has.
My mother is the best. She is a woman who shows her love for me and others around her in countless ways. She is charitable, loving, smart, and beautiful! I'm honored to have her in my life and I am beyond blessed to have her as my mom.
I encourage you all to think about who your role models are, and if possible, let them know you admire them! Role models can help you set goals in life, discover what you want to be, and can help morph you into a successful individual. Role models are wonderful things to have, and I am thankful for the ones I have, and the many others I did not mention in this article.
I hope you all have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
-Kittieme
