All my life I had role models who I looked up to at times for inspiration, guidance and direction. My stepfather, my Aunt Ed and Uncle Bob, my mentors, my friends, businessmen, the Lone Ranger, fictional characters, historical figures and others.
By learning how they lived, what they valued and how they responded to challenges, I was able to build my own character and moral code.
Sometimes I looked to them to define to higher level principles. Other times, I relied on them for tactical and logistic guidance.
Recently it occurred to me that I am struggling to find role models for my current life. I’m a widower. I’m a bachelor. I’m early retired. I’m frugal. I’m alone. I’m curious, self motivated and generally content.
When I’m looking for role models for my current life, I’m not finding many.
I recall the old men from my childhood. Some were longterm bachelors like my Uncle Russ (widowed) and my Uncle Bob (never married). Most were married like my Grandpa, my neighbors and my friend’s fathers.
By their actions they taught me how to be a man. They fixed things. They took care of their families and neighbors. They did their own laundry and paid their bills.
They watched out for their neighbors and the neighborhood. They volunteered to coach little league, maintain the playgrounds, run the block parties and man the fire department.
So maybe I’m wrong. Maybe I don’t need to search for role models. I just need to reach back into my memories and do what my old role models showed me to do many years ago.