Instead, by living out her faith she is always there to guide me on the right path through her example and words of advice.
We all have spiritual role models like my grandmother in our lives. Perhaps it is a relative, a parish priest, a neighbour or a friend.
When I was a student at a Catholic high school, the school’s motto was “Walk the talk. Make a difference.” I see this motto embraced by Catholic role models. Being Catholic is not just about attending Mass regularly and saying prayers. It is also about being Christ for others. We need to be less judgmental, less conceited and more accepting and loving.
We also need to be proud of our faith, just like our spiritual role models. There is no need to be ashamed of our faith in any environment. For me, it was easier talking about my faith when I was in high school where the majority shared the same beliefs. However, when I entered university I was exposed to a vast number of people from different faiths. I used to feel uncomfortable when I told others that I was completing a minor in Christianity and Education. But I realized that there is nothing to be ashamed about. Now I proudly tell others and people respect that.
We too are called to “walk the talk.” One cannot be a Catholic without others. We are called to serve one another. We can embrace the examples of our Catholic role models by becoming models for others.
As role models, we can extend our efforts to the poor and neglected through volunteering.
Charitable societies, such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society, are looking for gently used clothing. Food banks are looking for donations and volunteers. Seniors’ residences are always in need of volunteers. One does not have to be wealthy, popular or have special talents to perform the simple actions or to embrace an attitude characteristic of spiritual role models. Making these changes in one’s life can be a challenge, but surely a worthwhile one.
(Gagliano, 20, is a life sciences student at the University of Toronto.)
Spiritual role models help us ‘walk the talk’
By Sarah Gagliano, Youth Speak News
We all have role models, albeit some more positive than others. Maybe we strive to be just like our favourite athlete or singer. Others may be inspired by someone who has a career in a field that they’re hoping to get into one day. But we also have spiritual role models: people who live out what it means to be Catholic in their everyday lives.
The lives of the saints are excellent examples. Yet, there are other examples too. For me, one of my most influential spiritual role models is my grandmother. She was the one who introduced me to the rosary, the saints and even The Catholic Register. She is also an excellent role model in the way she acts because she is proud of her faith. She is friendly, cheerful and always willing to lend an ear when I need it. She does not judge.
The lives of the saints are excellent examples. Yet, there are other examples too. For me, one of my most influential spiritual role models is my grandmother. She was the one who introduced me to the rosary, the saints and even The Catholic Register. She is also an excellent role model in the way she acts because she is proud of her faith. She is friendly, cheerful and always willing to lend an ear when I need it. She does not judge.
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