I met some people I regarded that way decades ago. You never know their whole lives nor all their faults, but that's not important. They would not accept the accolades if they heard them. Humility is tantamount.
I discovered that they had people from their youth they regarded the same way.
And I'm afraid that some youths have mistakenly regarded myself as an example to emulate eventually. It's important to know that everyone has faults. Everyone. If you peel back enough layers you will find them. Not hidden, just quashed. So don't. Take the best of what you see and learn from it, but know we are all human.

I have a few friends like this. They're my touchstones.

Not really.

I have a friend named Mary. I KNOW that I am a better person because I know her. She is open and accepting and gives love as if the very act of loving feeds her personal wellbeing. Every person she has introduced me to has added something positive to my life. Her sons are shining examples of humanity. I look up to her and continually strive to be more like her.

Yes. Jean Illsey Clarke, Ph.D. author of "Self-Esteem: A Family Affair" and "Who, Me, Lead a Group?"

In 1988, I attended a week-long training for facilitating groups led by Jean Illsey Clarke. Over 90 people attended, the majority of whom were counselors.

While Dr. Clarke was presenting to the large group, I raised my hand and asked a question.

"Kathleen, have you read, "The Drama of the Gifted Child" by Alice Miller?" Dr. Clarke asked. "YOU are the gifted child."

Her week-long workshop changed my life.