Some might think it’s funny to love and be inspired by fictional characters, but I and many others would say otherwise. The fandom behind Marvel’s characters has continued to rise with the release and hits of many movies such as, "The Avengers," "Iron Man," and the recent release of "Captain America: Civil War." With the continuous output of Marvel movies there are always new characters added to the traditional characters. Marvel is great about creating a variety of characters and personality types. Seemingly it’s easy for all viewers to be able to attach themselves to at least one or two of the characters. For me I have favorites and others that are less. But, throughout the Marvel universe each character taught me something different and represents something in their own way. There are so many I could talk about and some I wanted to but couldn’t fit on the list. But here are eight characters that have impacted my life.

1. Steve Rogers

Captain America has to be my favorite out of all the Avengers! Steve taught me to want to be the best person that I can, stand up for the little guys and stay loyal to my friends. On top of those great traits his morals are beyond amazing! He knows what he stands for and will stick to it. For those that have seen, "Captain America: Civil War" you understand what I’m talking about. I could write all day about how much Cap. means to me, but there are other characters to discuss.

2. Clint Barton

Hawkeye often gets pushed out of frame when the Avengers assemble. It’s a shame because Barton is a character with a lot of potential. He is incredible with a bow and arrow… yeah, that’s all he has. He’s aware that he doesn’t have super strength, a metal suit or considered a god, but he still will fight for what’s right. He has a family and kids to look after (other than the avengers, ahem, Tony and Natasha). He is one of the most vulnerable characters and has a lot to lose, but he enjoys the rush of adrenaline and adventure. Hawkeye reminds me to take care of my family and other even though it might be difficult.

3. Tony Stark

Tony is Iron Man. I love the fact most super heroes try to mask and conceal their identity, but Tony shares it with the world. He’s not afraid of opportunity and sees it as a challenge. Even though it lands him in trouble sometimes he has the intelligence to fix it, most of the time. Stark is that perfect imperfect balance of charisma and total jerk. I see this as a reminder to be confident, but not so much that super villains want to come after you just to shut you up.

4. Peter Quill

Peter… ah I mean, Star-Lord, is a great character to remind us all to let loose sometimes. Yeah, you might be facing one of the biggest villains in the galaxy, but that’s the perfect time to break out into dance and song. Quill’s sense of humor lands him in some tricky situations, but it keeps up his hopes and attitude. So if you’re ever having a bad day, crank up your awesome mix vol. 1 and live a little!

5. Darcy Lewis

Lewis’ character is definitely made to be the comic relief in both "Thor" movies. She knows just when to pipe up and make a humorous comment. I love Darcy’s sense of adventure; she never really seeks it out. It finds her and she just goes with the flow. No matter what is going on around her she’ll find some way to add her opinion in some humorous way.

6. Bucky Barnes

Barnes is Steve Rogers’ best friend, and they both would do anything for each other. I admire their friendship and loyalty they both share. Their loyalty to each other is unbreakable… like cause a war unbreakable. Bucky always acted like the big brother Rogers never had and is a reminder to always look out for those that we care about

7. Natasha Romanoff

Black Widow is a great character to show off women can be sexy and deadly at the same time. She is very independent and resourceful and can get any job done on her own. Her power is incredible, and she’s not afraid of a fight. I really like Romanoff because she shows girl power and the determination that many people need.

8. Agent Peggy Carter

Carter is another great example of being strong and independent. She grew up in a time where she was overshadowed by her male counterparts, but that didn’t stop her. She knew what she wanted to accomplish and she did it even though people told her she couldn’t. Peggy Carter is a great example of not letting others bring you down, and if you believe in yourself you can do anything.

With all of these characters and many more, I hope it is easier to see why they all mean so much to the fans of Marvel. Through the comics and movies, the characters come to life. Except Iron Man and Robert Downy Jr. — they’re the same person.