- I work to have Washington's dignity.
- I study and evaluate myself to gain Franklin's sagacity.
- I consistently look to give earnestly and generously so to imitate Mother Teresa's compassion in action.
Someone said to me recently, "You really should have some heroes that are still alive." I was first surprised by the truth of this observation and after I stopped laughing, I asked myself why I don't have any living 'idols'? Well after a couple months of reflection, I have an answer.
Though it doesn't seem really evolved, it was true. I found I was protecting myself from learning that someone I'd admired was really a scoundrel. I didn't want to find that I'd invested any part of myself emotionally in someone who had plenty of time and opportunities left to mess up. I liked the neat and finished product that a dead and revered icon provided.
By unconsciously and exclusively following the dead, I was denying the inspiration that comes in the practice of virtue in the living.
I'm happy to report that I'm appreciating the endurance of Dan Jansen, the perspective of the Dali Lama and the consistency of Ron Paul. I don't have to agree with each person's lifestyle, politics, or anything else. I can admire their application of virtue.
In whom do you see virtue? How will you imitate it today?
Following and Leading,
RR
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