Ronald Ulysses Swanson, for those of you who may not know, is Leslie Knope’s boss and confidant on "Parks and Recreation." While he is simply a character on television, actor Nick Offerman has performed him with such bravado and subtle charisma that the character’s become larger than life. Ron Swanson is simply one of those men who you just know would make a fantastic mentor/life coach/wise uncle, what have you, if he were only real. This is my explanation in quotations as to why Ron Swanson is the perfect role model.

1. He is an aficionado of social interaction.

2. He possesses the necessary competitive edge to succeed in life

3. He is the patriot of patriots.

4. He holds the utmost respect for women. And even more for breakfast food.

5. He knows all the best coping mechanisms for dealing with grief.

6. Honesty is highest on his list of required virtues.

7. A solid work ethic is imperative, no matter the task.

8. He is the final word on the age-old “cats vs. dogs” argument.

9. He values nature above all else.

10. When he does cut loose, he does so with enthusiasm and grace.