My Role Models

I still vividly remember how my father creatively taught me to read my first syllables. I cried most of the time because it seemed too burdensome to me. Sometimes, the teaching session turns into a disciplinary moment. I'm pretty sure I hated every spanking I received from my parents back then because I am not in the mood to read and write.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

But when I entered grade school, my teacher was surprised to hear someone reading what she is writing on the chalkboard. She asked, almost confused, whose voice was she hearing? I sheepishly raised my hand. My teacher recognized that I was able to read earlier than my classmates. The efforts of my parents paid off.

Years passed and I can say I have done well in school. On several occasions, I have made it to the honor roll. And on those occasions, I saw how proud and satisfied my parents were.

We are not rich. I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and tears of my father and mother. But they always believed in me, and whatever they can give, they do the extra mile for me and my younger brother. They are far from perfect, but they perfectly love us.

That's why I consider them my role models. Role models for me are not those who are on top of the caste, looking down on us and raining us with inspiration we may or we may not reach. Role models for me are those who go down below us, pushing us up so we can reach our full potential.

We are living in the age of influencers. Content creators and celebrities are our sources of inspiration in life. Their lifestyle and choices affect ours. But I'd rather not call them role models. Whatever their message or influence is, they are just entertainment to me. Role models to me are those whom I have witnessed failing but refused to give up. Those I have seen shedding tears but still cling on to hope. Those who laughed with me, walked with me, challenged me, and pushed me to become who I am now. There are many to mention but I'd like to give the honorary spot to my parents.

Thanks to their inspiration, I would also love to be a worthy role model too to my future children.