It was not what they said
But what they did
That left the imprint.

So many adults showed the younger me
How to live
A life worth living.

But this is not a lesson you learn one time
Each day has new challenges
New opportunities.

Starting my later years
I look to those who got there first
To be my guides.

How to be oneself
How to know what you want
When no one is looking.

How to be a friend
Who listens
With heart wide open.

How to be a person
Who cares deeply about the world
But is not weighed down by the care.

How to stay curious
How to stay kind
How to stay engaged.

In my new role in life
I still need role models
And I am lucky to have them.