According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, an icon is "a person or thing widely admired especially for having great influence or significance in a particular sphere." Examples provided include civil rights icons, fashion icons, culinary icons, and more.
I probably had 10 to 12 years of my life without social media. Social media is easily synonymous with Gen Z and Millennials by far. But before having a large number of followers could provide you with a digital blue check or “verified” status, people actually had to be incredibly skilled at something to be considered an icon.
Jesus the Christ, iconic. Whitney Houston, iconic. Dr. King, iconic. You know you’ve reached icon status when your name can be abbreviated and people still know who you are—like both MJs. ICONIC!
Though these individuals were undoubtedly unmatched, there’s a couple I know that are my personal favorite icons. Before I begin to share about these two individuals, I want readers to recognize that icons are within reach. Oftentimes, we encourage youth to become like people they’ll never meet. We’ll coach individuals to the skillset of these icons, but not their character. Because, truth be told, we don’t know what these people are truly like. We don’t know who they are in private.
This brings me to the couple I mentioned earlier. This elderly couple personified love and care in ways I hope everyone experiences. I’m grateful I was a beneficiary of their lives. This couple was my great-grandparents—Granny and Papa, our family endearingly called them.
Granny was incredibly hardworking, and Papa was too. They weren’t luxurious or affluent. They didn’t profess strong opinions or views on global affairs. Their talents and gifts didn’t land them a role in a film or musical. They were simple, ordinary people.
However, what they valued and the principles they lived by made them extraordinary, in my opinion.
Granny and Papa valued family and upheld the principle of care. They believed in taking the stairs in life, not the elevator. They gave others what they didn’t have: a shoulder to lean on, wise counsel, and much more. Though I am impressed by the tenacity and talents of well-known icons, my great-grandparents come before them all. Why? Because I knew who they were in private. I saw their integrity. I received their care. I benefited, and continue to benefit, from their sacrifices. What an honor!
I’m not the only person who has elders or individuals who made a difference in their life. Perhaps you are the icon. Perhaps you are using your influence to impact the spheres in your life.
Words of Wisdom by Char of The Week: Who are the icons in your life? This week, take the time to acknowledge and celebrate those who’ve made a difference in your life.
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