Thanking My Role Models

A little while ago I wrote a piece about being ready to be a role model. And after I read it over and thought about it a lot I decided to shout out some of the people that I consider to be role models.

I certainly haven’t pointed out everyone that is a role model for me because there are a lot of them out there. But here’s a sampling.

– Barack Obama:
I know he’s caught a lot of flack lately over the BP oil spill tragedy. And I know that the Nobel Peace Prize was probably given to him prematurely. However, President Obama is a provider of hope. He is a well spoken, well educated and well presented example of how change can be achieved. I was totally sucked into the pre-election hype. I watched President Obama speak on TV, I bought and read The Audacity Of Hope and I proudly wore the Obama ’08 button that my friend Terry gave me. Oh and by the way, I did all of this as a proud Canadian.

On inauguration day I was glued to the TV as the new President and my ambassador for hope and change spoke to America and the world. It’s been almost a year and a half since that morning, and I still believe. Yes we can.

– Kevin Smith:
Kevin Smith might seem to be a big jump from President Obama, but in my mind it isn’t such a leap. K.Smith has done a lot of the things that’s I’d like to do. He has written, directed and acted in movies both big and small. He has written books and comics. He has a massive and loyal fanbase. He gives to charity. He loves his wife and daughter. And he seems like he’d be a cool guy to hang out with. Unless you’re in an airport maybe.

Meeting K.Smith with Caitlin is February was one of the most exciting moments of my year. Having my picture taken with he and Walter Gretzky rocked my world. But it was his humility and modesty that made it special. Dude doesn’t act like he’s better than anyone else, just wealthier. I admire that just as much as I admire his work*. And while he may have a potty mouth, I still look up to him. Well done sir.

*including Jersey Girl and Catch & Release.

-Justin Trudeau:
My first memory of Justin Trudeau is the eulogy he delivered at his father’s funeral. He was well spoken, sincere and heartfelt then and he has seemed to continue with those same qualities. It’s true that he has been hesitant to take the big leadership step in the Liberal Party that some people (myself included) think he should take. But his youth and enthusiasm and honesty is refreshing and inspiring.

It certainly helps that I share his point of view on many issues, but even outside of that, Justin Trudeau carries himself with dignity and pride. Add to that his career and dedication as an educator and my respect for Justin Trudeau almost doesn’t seem to be enough. Merci.

-Everyone choosing to do what they love:
I envy and applaud every person who has decided to make the thing they love their work. An old school friend, Will Kucey, owns Le Gallery in Toronto and I have been proud of him and inspired since the day he first opened. He is doing what he loves and it’s awesome.

I also tip my hat to Jordan Bastian from MLB.com. Following the Blue Jays may not have been his dream assignment growning up in Michigan. But dude is following a big league team and writing. High five.
I’ve also got tons of love for folks like Kelly Diels, Amanda Farough, Danielle LaPorte, Julie Roads, Dave Doolin et al. These people are online writing, designing, teaching, coaching and inspiring. That’s what role models do. Thank you all.

As I said off the top, there are a lot of people that I look up to in my life. These are just a few. And as well as thanking them I’d like to thank you. When you stop in and read these posts and comment here and on Facebook and Twitter you are making my dreams come true. Thank you.

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Joshua Murray

creator of content, daddy blogger, writer, coffee drinker, fan of the Batman. proud mo bro. prouder dad.