The Power of Role Models

The people we look up to, the figures we respect, and the ones who inspire us, can all be referred to by a common name. That's right, role models. They may not be anything special or famous. They may not have large amounts of money. Actually, they may not have anything. The only common thing they tend to have is the ability to inspire and cause a change in others. It's interesting that a person with nothing or someone low in social status can have the power to move others. That is a strength that seems to be underestimated.

Until now, I hadn't realized the massive effects someone could have on another person. Negative words from someone you respect can kill your drive, your motivations. Positive words can push you forward. 

If you've read my last post, you know that being an otaku is not always an easy feat. I was faced with someone who I respected, and they pretty much shattered my expectations. I'm not someone to stay focused on the past, so I'm not going to complain about that. 

Moving on, as I was feeling pretty down and out, I stumbled upon a message from another individual that I respect greatly. Her message read "Don't let anybody stop you from doing what you love! I mean it!!" It was such great timing and it really boosted me out of a slump.

Sometimes, all people need is just some positive vibes, and maybe a nice smile!

While the message to you from my experiences is obvious, her message seems a bit more important. When you're really passionate about something, you might be faced with opposition. People may directly disprove of what you're doing, and try to do things to get you to stop.

I've seen this happen to many anime fans. They may dream of creating their own work someday, or owning an anime company. They may want to become a seiyuu or a mangaka. People tell them it's impossible and to give up. If it's something you love, don't give up on it.

I'm sure everyone reading this post is not an anime fan, but everyone out there has some sort of dream. Don't give up on it, if you really love it. I was somewhat talked into giving up my anime and video gaming passions, forced to live by the words of others. However, I was able to snap back into my normal self, by the simple words of a role model. I think the fact that another person can do something like that for someone else is amazing. 

While I'm not all that accomplished, I hope that someone who was thinking like I was that day, will read this and change. I hope my words can give them even a little hope of achieving that dream and following the passions they hold dear. In a nutshell, don't worry about those who say you can't, or those who tell you what you're doing is bad. Tread on and live a passionate life, doing what you love.