How a SGM (Sergeant Major) will assist the planning staff

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Now, let's talk about Mother Teresa. For many, she’s the ultimate example of a moral exemplar. She dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor in Calcutta, India. She cared for the sick and dying, offered them comfort and dignity, and inspired countless others to help those in need. She won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work, and many consider her a saint. When we think of selfless service and compassion, she's often the first person who comes to mind.

But, like any human being, Mother Teresa was complex. She wasn't perfect. People like the journalist Christopher Hitchens have criticized her for various reasons. They’ve questioned the conditions in her hospices, the source of her funding, and her views on certain social issues. They argue that her emphasis on spiritual salvation overshadowed the need for practical solutions to poverty, and that her public image was carefully crafted and didn't always reflect the reality of her work.

This brings us to the heart of the matter: What does it really take to be a moral exemplar? And does Mother Teresa fit the bill?

In my view, several key elements make someone a moral exemplar. First, a deep and consistent commitment to moral principles. It’s not enough to be good occasionally; they strive to do what’s right even when it's difficult or unpopular. They have a strong internal compass guiding their actions. Second, these principles are reflected in their actions. Moral exemplars live their values; they don't just talk about them. Their actions speak louder than words. Third, they have a positive impact on the world. They make a tangible difference in the lives of others, whether through direct service, advocacy, or simply inspiring others to be better.

Notice what I didn't say: perfection. I don't believe moral exemplars need to be morally perfect. In fact, the idea of a "perfect" moral exemplar can be problematic. It sets an impossibly high standard, one that no human can ever achieve. When we place individuals on pedestals, we risk overlooking their humanity, their flaws, and their struggles. We forget that they are, at the end of the day, just like us, trying to navigate the complexities of life and make the best choices they can.

I believe it’s more helpful to view moral exemplars as works in progress. They are individuals who are constantly learning, growing, and evolving. They make mistakes, they have doubts, and they sometimes fall short of their own ideals. But what distinguishes them is their unwavering commitment to keep trying, to keep learning, and to keep striving to live a life of integrity.

Mother Teresa, like all of us, was imperfect. The criticisms against her are valid and should be considered. But I also believe it's crucial to acknowledge the immense good she accomplished. She dedicated her life to serving the most vulnerable among us, offering them compassion and care in the face of extreme poverty and suffering. She inspired countless others to do the same. Even if her methods weren't flawless, her motivations were clearly rooted in a profound desire to alleviate suffering and help those in need.

In my opinion, this makes her a moral exemplar. Not because she was perfect, but because she embodied the qualities of compassion, service, and an unshakeable dedication to her values. She demonstrated what it means to live a life focused on something larger than oneself. She reminds us that even amidst immense challenges and personal imperfections, we all possess the potential to make a positive impact.

It's vital to critically examine our heroes, to understand their lives with nuance and complexity. But it's equally important to recognize the good they do, the inspiration they provide, and the positive influence they have on the world. Moral exemplars aren't flawless, but they show us what’s possible. They offer us hope that we, too, can strive to live a life of purpose and meaning, a life dedicated to making the world a slightly better place. And perhaps, in the end, that's the most important lesson they teach us.

Sample Answer

Imagine you’re learning about constellations. You see a pattern of stars, like the Big Dipper, and it helps you find other stars. A moral exemplar is similar – they’re like a bright star that guides us towards what’s good and right. They show us, through their lives, what it looks like to be a truly good person. They aren't just talking about being kind or brave; they live it. They inspire us to be better versions of ourselves.

Think of someone you admire – a teacher, a family member, maybe even a historical figure. What makes you admire them? Chances are, it's not because they're perfect, but because of the qualities they embody: honesty, compassion, courage, resilience. These are the kinds of qualities that shine brightly in a moral exemplar