In the spirit of the holiday season, I want to start a more fun conversation.

Who are your favorite characters and why? They can be from anything; movies, TV shows, video games, literature, etc.

Furthermore, did they exhibit any positive traits or skills that made you want to become a better person in the real world in some way? Did their actions help encourage you to want to learn a particular skill, become physically fitter, more resourceful, confident, etc?

I'll get things started (mine aren't in any particular order):

1. Zero (Mega Man X): I like both Zero and X, but Zero's confident professionalism so to speak stood out to me. He's serious and intelligent, but he knows how to stay witty and sarcastic at the same time. In addition, he wants to defeat his destiny as a robot designed to commit evil and fight for good. In particular, I love how he's always working to better at protecting others but has to struggle with the realization that doesn't guarantee he'll be able to save those closest to him. That last example reminds me of something I've struggled with in my own life.

2. Donatello (TMNT 2003): I love the arc Donnie undergoes in the '03 TMNT cartoon. He's extremely book-smart and; like myself, passionate about machines and technology. Nonetheless, he's open to acquiring new knowledge. Although he studies science and technology at an academic level, he does it out of a genuine love for the field. And he developed his intellect almost entirely on his own. He's great at staying cool and collected under pressure and thinking creatively and quickly in the same circumstances. Out of all the Turtles, he's probably the most pacifistic and diplomatic, but isn't above getting snarky occasionally. Finally, he can get annoyed by his family at times, but will still drop everything to help them and become deeply passionate about helping them.

3. Niko Bellic (GTA IV): He may not be a popular choice here, but I loved playing through his story. Although he came from very little and doesn't have a great record of following the law, I think he proved to be so much more than that. Despite a horrible upbringing, Niko in GTA IV goes on to display a clear sense of honor and an ability to think more three-dimensionally than most of the game's other characters. I love how he goes through hell to protect Roman and everyone else he cares about even when their judgement (or lack thereof) gets them in trouble. I chose to take the story paths where he spares targets as I felt they were more consistent with his personality. Besides, who wouldn't admire a character that's agile, adaptable, and can operate any machine from a car to a helicopter?

All three of these characters partially inspired me to get physically fitter, think less impulsively, think about the consequences of my actions, open myself up to new knowledge/ideas, and become more analytical and confident. I became more inspired to treat others how I'd want to be treated and stand up for what's right even if it might not make me popular. Most important of all, following their adventures helped me realize that no matter how uncertain or hopeless I think life can look, there's always some way I can make it a little better.

Your turn.