I think that, now more than ever the younger generation needs good positive role models. My parents always said, “You are the books you read and the people you surround yourself with”. How true is this statement?
I have always had women in my life that I classify as my role models. But I never thought I would be considered a “role model” to someone else nor have someone younger that looks up to me for guidance. Over the past few years a new light has shined on my life and I have been shown that every move I make is being watched. I never realized how big of an impact one person can make on the people who are watching them.
Being involved in community service and pageants, I was taught to take leadership in everything I do. I have been told to be an effective leader, be a good example, and to be the person you want your children to look up to. Little did I know that one day I would have so many children and young women who would call me their own role model.
I have become a role model without even trying or auditioning for the part. I was placed as a role model without a choice. Although this role is a big one to fill, I have learned from every experience and road it has taken me down. I would like to be called an inspiration to others not a role model. Because I make mistakes like everybody else.
There are so many people who I classify as role models for my life. When I stop and think what part they actually play in my life it comes down to: inspiration.
The best way for us as adults to be role models to the younger generation is to model the type of person we want them to be. You can’t make someone be who you want them to be, you can only teach them how to be the person you want them to be. The saying about role models goes a long with the saying “you can a take a cow to the pond, but you can’t make it drink the water.” Same thing with people, you can teach them how to be a better person but you can’t make them act better.
Every move you make, someone is watching. Make sure you are a shining light and an inspiration. You never know the impact you can make or are making on someone.
No leader became great because of power. They became great because of how much they empowered others. – Anonymous
Lacie 