I'm very thankful for the platform I've been given, and I

Hear the words of James Charles, who declared with honesty and weight: “I’m very thankful for the platform I’ve been given, and I realize that I’m a role model for many people. I want to use my platform to spread positivity.” Though spoken in the modern tongue of a digital age, his words carry the spirit of the ancients, for they deal with power, responsibility, humility, and the sacred duty to guide others with light rather than shadow.

The first jewel in this saying is thankfulness. He begins by recognizing that the platform he stands upon is not merely his own creation, but a gift—a convergence of talent, timing, and the support of countless others. In every age, the wise have taught that influence is not seized by strength alone, but bestowed through favor, whether by divine providence, fortune, or the people themselves. To be thankful is to acknowledge that the stage we stand upon rests upon the shoulders of many.

The second flame is the recognition of being a role model. To influence others is no small thing; it is to carry the unseen weight of souls who look to you for guidance. In ancient times, the philosopher, the warrior, and the poet bore this mantle, knowing their actions would ripple across generations. James Charles speaks in this same tradition, confessing that his presence is not his own alone—it shapes the lives of others. To realize this is humility; to embrace it is responsibility.

The third truth in his words is his desire to spread positivity. Influence can corrupt as easily as it can inspire. Many have used their platforms—whether thrones, pulpits, or digital stages—for pride, division, or destruction. But he chooses light, speaking of joy, encouragement, and upliftment. This echoes the calling of all true leaders: to be a source of hope in times of confusion, to scatter seeds of peace in fields often overrun with bitterness.

History bears witness to the same pattern. Consider the story of Marcus Aurelius, emperor of Rome. Though he ruled with supreme authority, he saw himself as a servant of his people and sought to model humility and virtue through his daily meditations. His writings, though private, became a platform of guidance for centuries, spreading wisdom far beyond his reign. Like James Charles, he recognized that to hold power without gratitude and without a desire to lift others was to fail in one’s highest calling.

The fourth jewel in this teaching is the reminder that platforms, whether vast or small, are never neutral. Each of us has a platform—the home, the workplace, the circle of friends—and each word or action spreads light or darkness. To say “I want to spread positivity” is to commit to making one’s influence a wellspring of life, not a fountain of poison. This choice belongs not only to the famous, but to all who walk among others.

The lesson for us is plain: be thankful for the influence you possess, whether large or small. Recognize that someone, somewhere, is watching, and that your words and actions carry weight. Choose to use your voice not for destruction but for encouragement, not for pride but for service. Gratitude will keep your heart humble, and the desire to uplift others will make your legacy enduring.

Practically, reflect each day on your own platform. Ask yourself: Whom have I influenced today? Did my words build or break? Did my actions heal or wound? Speak words of encouragement, share gratitude openly, and seek opportunities to spread light even in small ways. For in doing so, you fulfill the wisdom of James Charles’ words: thankful, mindful, and committed to spreading positivity.