Some more I thought of. There's no one person who personifies every quality I feel best represents men and women, but I admire different qualities of these people that I feel do that
Christiane Amanpour-she is not some pretty(but I think she's quite pretty) empty talking head, she is the real deal. Smart, gutsy, and classy.
Ali Hewson-she is her own person and shuns the limelight. From what I know of her I think she is like a beautiful Irish rose, but made of steel. She could be like a stereotypical rock star wife but she chooses not to be and does very admirable charity work too. She is a mystery and I like women who are mysteries. She seems so humble and kind too, I really like that. Plus she is to be admired just for putting up w/ Bono sometimes
Dr. Rice-I don't agree with her politically but I admire the hell out of what she has achieved being African American and female. She personifies perseverance, confidence, and toughness. She doesn't let any man make her feel less than, and I don't think any man ever even tries.
Kate Winslet-I admire so much how outspoken she is about Hollywood and the pressures on women. She is so beautiful but that doesn't define who she is. She is feminine but tough, and so talented.
Janet Marie Smith, Vice President of Planning and Development for the Boston Red Sox-any woman who can succeed in a male dominated field like sports is admirable, plus she just does a good job.
Meredith Vieira-she's in a high powered job but you still get the sense that she is completely down to earth. Bright, funny, self-deprecating. Devoted wife and mother. I think she's a classy lady.
Some more men
Nelson Mandela-no explanation really necessary
David Letterman-funny, self deprecating, charming. I've had a crush on him forever cause I just think he's sexy in such a unique way. He seems to be such a loving dad and that is very attractive to me.
Michael J Fox- I always admired his talent and charm, but now I admire him even more for his strength and courage in the face of his disease, and for helping others instead of wallowing in self pity (which I think he would have every right to do). I also admire his devotion to his wife and kids.
Rev. Billy Graham. I don't agree with him about everything, but I admire his strength and his spirituality so much-and his devotion to his wife.
Anderson Cooper is already on the askmen list, but yes indeed. Smart, sexy, self deprecating. Really knows how to dress. He just has "it" in spades as far as I'm concerned.
James Spader-intriguing, a mystery wrapped in an enigma. Not a pretty boy (maybe he was technically years ago), his appeal is not easily defined. He just oozes sexiness but I really don't quite know why. He scares me but in the best way possible. He doesn't seem at all into his looks and that is so appealing. He seems quite smart and funny too.