1. Role Models have flaws or inconsistencies in their character. They

often fell/fall short of perfection!

2. Role Models not only have to survive the test of their generation but also meet the criteria of future generations.

3. Role Models were identified by looking at their entire life contributions, not based on a period of time or decision in their life that tainted their character.

4. Role Models based their life contributions on significance not just success.

5. Role Models have/had a clear purpose and mission in life.

6. Contributions of role models were focused on others not just themselves or their own family. Character was important!

7. Role Models accepted the challenges that face them and responded with courage and perseverance.

8. Role Models were willing to take a calculated risk in achieving their goals.

9. Role Models had confidence and faith they could make a difference.

10. Most Roles Models identified as such would not consider themselves Role Models because of their humility.

Many on the list from previous generations did not experience the kind of media scrutiny that modern day role models have to face. For this reason it makes it difficult to identify modern heroes and role models because it focuses almost exclusively on character not contribution.

– Gene Bedley