Captain Picard very much became a Captain to all of us, I think.

Of course he’s got some flaws for sure (his stubbornness, for one!) but he really set the bar for what a civilised person and a good leader should be.

He’s principled, fact-based, fair in his judgement, respects the differences of others (both individually and culturally), solves problems with understanding and empathy rather than force, and he’s forgiving of mistakes.

And he does all that while still being a “strong” man. In fact, it’s these very traits which earn him the respect of his crew.

I’m glad I had Captain Picard as an influence in my childhood, rather than whatever youtube channel trying to make me angry for all the wrong reasons.