The power of role models

As I prepare for what lies ahead, like many in my “twilight” years, I frequently find myself looking back and reflecting on how I got to where I am in my life. Being influenced by some exceptional primary and secondary school teachers, actively participating in the Boy Scouts of America (Cub Scouts through Sea Explorers), and active involvement in Sunday School and Church, I suspect I got to where I am in life today by attempting to emulate two role models. These two role models have served as my North Star throughout the highs and lows of what I consider to be a life well lived.

Those individuals were my Uncle Dr. Peter Weaver Squire from Emporia, VA and my father J. Roswell Poplar Jr. from Havre de Grace, MD. Although they were distinct and separate individuals, they shared many common backgrounds and traits. Both came of age in America’s Great Depression. Their parents were of modest means. “Daddy Buck,” my maternal grandfather who was also my uncle’s father, ran a service station and when you purchased gasoline back in the day your windshield was washed, radiator level checked, and air added to your tires if required, all free of charge and with a smile by the owner of the station. My paternal grandfather “Pop-Pop” owned a grocery store where he delivered groceries to customers. In addition, due to the Depression, he provided essentials such as bread and eggs free of charge to those in need. 

#AmericanThinker #RoleModels #Positive #Family #Influencers

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