When you think of a role model do you have someone that comes to your mind? Personally, I can think of five people within seconds.
My parents would be the first people that I think of when I hear the term role model. My dad taught me to love the sport that I play. He showed me that being competitive is not a bad thing, and that I should strive to be the best at the sport I play. He also taught me that there is always someone on the court that wants to take my place. The real question would be whether I would give in and let them have my position or if I would work to achieve my goals. My mom on the other hand taught me that others should be given grace; however, you do not let someone manipulate you. She taught me that I should always stand up for myself even when it might be difficult to do.
Lately my friends have been a "role model" to me in a sense. They have taught me to grow closer to God and His word. Each day they challenge me to be a better person, even when they do not notice it. Both academically and through sports they have taught me that I can always do better than what I expect. We have a good competitive friendship where one always wants to out do the other to see which one can get the higher grade. Through it all they do not notice the impact they have on my life, but they truly do help me so much every day.
A few months ago I was told that I was someone's "role model." Honestly, I did not know how to handle this situation. Many thoughts ran through my head, "Are you sure you have the right person?" "How am I someone's role model?" "This must be a joke." That's the thing, we never think that we can be a role model to someone. We simply forget that people are constantly watching us. The first sign of weakness, they will see it. The moment when your strength shines, they will see that also.
" I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say 'Because of you I didn't give up." Sometimes we hear a quote and it speaks volumes to us. This quote in particular is one that should be incorporated into our lives. Everyday someone is looking at us. Whether it's something small or something large there is always a little girl that is watching you. They notice what you are doing before you even notice that they are there.
Why do we not strive to be the best that we can at everything? Are we afraid to fail? Are we afraid to let others see who we really are? We need to learn that through everything we are inspiring someone else. Even if you fail, there is still someone watching over you.
