When Role Models We Emulate Fall from Grace

Groucho Marx once said, "I would not join any club that would have me as a member." The same could be said, "I would question anyone who would delegate me as a role model."

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a role model as a person whose behavior in a particular role is imitated by others. The question is why do we idolize prominent people and always expect them to be role models for the whole world? Who are we emulating and why do we choose to place this burden on others? Many times, you hear people say that a particular celebrity, or athlete is a great role model, and one should always strive to be like that person. Often, society has a tendency to choose their role models and expect them to live up to their expectations. However, what happens when an individual who is bestowed this title falls from grace? Suddenly, the public becomes angry or feels a sense of betrayal. It is as though the public has a personal attachment with that individual.

All human beings possess a public and private façade, are multi-faceted, and come with flaws. If you are going to appoint public figures as role models and expect them to be faultless all the time, then you will be disenchanted, repeatedly. At some point in our lives, we will either make serious and lighted hearted slip-ups, no matter what role we hold.

Often, you hear people say, "That athlete is an excellent role model, and children and young adults should emulate that man or woman. No one is saying that you should never aspire to be great at what you do, but the idols you appoint to be role models will most likely never cross you path or shake your hand.

The true role models are the ones you can go to for advice and guidance, namely your parents, relatives, close friends, teachers, ministers and people with whom you have a personal and trusting relationship. You can call or approach them anytime, and they will always have your back, but the most important role model in your life, is the icon you see when you look in the mirror.