There are so many positive things to be said about Robinson High School's recent Cheer Clinic - the energy, the kids, the teamwork, the performance.

Everything about it was so positive. So positive, in fact, I was moved to start writing about it last week. I was nearly finished when a Facebook post by one of the RHS cheerleaders prompted me to hit the delete key and start over.

It was the use of two simple words with a clinic photo I had taken - role model.

My daughters have participated in these and similar clinics year after year. Now, after scanning photo after photo of little girl looking dreamingly up at each of the high school cheerleaders, I'm questioning if it was actually their desire to perfect their various skills or the opportunity to be near these older students who seem to "have it together."

When a cheerleader or athlete they've met at a clinic recognizes or says hello to them after the event, it is a BIG deal. I know for a fact, it isn't just my kids who get this rush.

Watch what happens when any older student in a leadership role makes himself or herself accessible to younger students. The younger student's eyes light up.

As a parent, it warms my heart to see the interaction. The gesture subtly tells me "I remember your child and he or she is special."

The message to my child? "This really cool big kid remembers me! I want to be just like him or her."

Who wouldn't want to feel that? Who doesn't want that for their child?

How many students truly realize their boundless influence among the children they reach at these clinics?

It's an awesome honor and a great responsibility, with immeasurable rewards.