This Monday, I’m taking a break from the usual motivation to show some appreciation.

Today, the world lost a true marvel–Stan Lee.It’s hard to put into words what Stan Lee was the comic world. He was in many ways a god. Name a beloved character from Marvel Comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and odds are Lee played a part in molding their story.

Spider-Man, X-Men, the Avengers, Captain America, Daredevil, Iron Man, the Hulk, Black Panther–the list goes on and on. Their stories do more than entertain, they inspire. They give readers and viewers an ideal to aspire to.

Not through their superpowers, but through the message behind their actions. They aren’t always perfect, in fact, they’re incredibly human. Their heroism comes from always striving to be better.

These characters will live on, but the presence and influence of their creator will certainly be missed. Rest in peace, Mr. Stan Lee.

…just for fun: