Posted: Jan 22, 2008, 7:49 PM CST
Do I care what people think of me?
Of course.
We are constantly being a role model when we are in public, and we never know who is watching.
A child, who likes something as simple as our hairdo, might begin to imitate our actions to be more like us. A pregnant 14 year old listens to how we talk to our kids. Someone’s first boyfriend learns from how we act toward our spouse. An elderly person watches us to relive his own youth.
Someone who admires us emulates us. Someone who envies us strives to be like us. Someone confused by us pays closer attention. Someone who dislikes us tries to figure out what quality in themselves they need to change.
We are constantly role models to others, even if we never interact with them, and even more so when we do.
We can be someone’s inspiration to keep trying, or someone’s reason to finally give up.
Now, do I happen to care what people think of how well I coordinate my clothing, or if I drive a fancy car, or if I paint my nails or something?
No. I don’t really care what someone thinks of my fashion sense or income level.
Do I care if people LIKE me?
Not really.
If I am doing what I think is the morally right thing to do in life, then I can take solace in knowing that I am being the best person I can be, and if they don’t like me, I don’t much care either way. It’s not like I’m so needy for friends I have to compromise my principles.