Role Models

Why am I writing this blog? Mostly it is as a means of finding clarity within my thoughts. Also, it is a way of working through issues that I am dealing with, as well as those I see prevalent throughout my community. There again, I write so that you will read it and reflect on it; find some nugget hidden deep within it and find something of value (intrinsic or otherwise).

As most of you know, I am an avid fan of Star Wars-probably not the biggest fan, but perhaps the biggest fan I know (Trey is probably up there, too). Well, I am reading a book from the series 'Legacy of the Force' and it brings up a great deal of questions for me. Right now, there is a thirteen year-old boy who has come face to face with death-he is responsible for killing two people, one armed and the other unarmed. He is also a Jedi, sworn to defend and promote peace-yet, he is being used to propagate war and destruction. All because he idolizes his older cousin, who is also a Jedi.

Has this ever happened to you? Allowing yourself to fall deeper and deeper into an unsavory position all because of idolization of another individual? I know that I have gone down this road; I was young and impressionable and didn't want to lose the perceived connection I had with the person. For this reason (as well as others), I find that I am a huge advocate for mentors and positive role models for young adults. There are too many bad influences in today's society to simply ignore these formative years. Most of you know my strong commitment to discipleship and my desire to see good Christian examples stand up and help guide their younger peers.

It is so easy to get lost in the glitz and glamour of the world and to ignore the less flashy life we lead. But don't give up on your example-even if you see no results, don't throw in the towel. You may be planting a seed that someone else will harvest; it may seem thankless at times, but remember those who receive accolades here on earth have have gotten their share.

I would like to close with these two things: 1)I want to thank all of you who have taken the time to invest in someone else and to pour into their life when they needed an example like you; 2)I want to thank all those who have poured into my life and helped me to be the man I am today-flawed, though I be; fallible, though I be-God still uses me.

David