I hope to God that everyone has that one significant person in their life that makes a lasting impact- that truly makes a difference and is an example of a life of influence. To me, that person is, always has been and always will be my brother, Aaron. When I say he is my role model, I mean that in so many aspects. In perspective, in character, in personality and in discipline.
This, I do know- everyone has a story; everyone has various experiences in life. The truest blessing is when there is someone who remains present in your life no matter what happened nor what will. My siblings include my younger sister, older brother and myself. Both of them are my pride and joy in life- my companions and the people I am closest to. Both are remarkable individuals, but when I think of role models, strong character and achievement, I think of my brother.
In his truest form, Aaron can be somewhat of a hard head. I know he knows this, but he is a bit cocky at times. He knows I adore him, so I’m aloud to say that. The only justification I can give to excuse this behavior is the fact that he is so strong and so wise that it is inevitable for him to be frustrated with what the world lacks. Aaron sets the bar high for what an upstanding and bold individual should look like. He possesses the type of character I aspire to attain and hope to see more of the world progress towards.
How did he get here? Though I wish it was simply hereditary, Aaron was put in a position at a young age that he shouldn’t have been placed it- but thank God he was. Life can throw some curve balls at you that either crush you, or you grip the bat tighter and hit a home run. Yes, Aaron played baseball, but of course I am referring to his skills off the field. Our parents were divorced when we were fairly young. I was seven, my sister was three and Aaron was 10.
This was the first curve ball.
We did not have a father living at home. So, we had to get a better grip on the bat. My brother, alongside my mom took the place of a mostly absent father. This is where Aaron’s character comes in. I was a mama’s girl, but when I needed that gritty attitude of buckling down and overcoming obstacles, my brother stepped in- and still does.
Aaron took ownership of his unplanned role and stepped up as the man of the house. He not only taught me what a strong character looks like, but also showed excellent analyzing skills. When situations arise and emotions seem out of control, my brother knows how to make sense of it. For me, Aaron has taught me 3 major life lessons:
- Be emotionally disciplined
- Be a realist
- Know the facts for yourself
These come with all the emotionally chaotic scenarios our family went through and still go through. Aaron never settled with excuses nor any emotionally-blurred conversations. He looks at situations logically, seeks out the root of what is happening and addresses it head on- he doesn’t dance around the problem. An aspect that people can struggle with is transparency and owning up to an issue. Aaron is not a stiff, emotionless person, he just knows when it is appropriate to let out emotions and to what extent.
In addition to taking on early leadership roles, Aaron also realized he couldn’t do it for himself. He realized his need for relationships and for a mentor. Entering manhood is difficult when done solely, so Aaron sought out the men in his life that were present- that were trustworthy, faithful men of character. Another reason why my brother is my hero- he knows he can’t do it alone.
My brother is my hero. He is my refuge and deliverance when times are hard and when times are good. He pushes me with determination and motivation to achieve more than the next person. Whether it be through sports, school, family or friends, my brother helps carry me when I need it most. Our lives progressed to step parents and step siblings, moving and attending college. For Aaron, after college he joined the army to further his dedicated and disciplined person. He trains day in and day out to stand for the country he loves and for strength, determination and selflessness. Yet another reason why my brother is my hero.
