Current Events > The rival character in every Pokemon game is the real hero of the game.

(+) Yeah! (+)

It takes real courage to take ruthless beating after ruthless beating from a clear superior to get right back up and stay after it. And that's more an accurate reflection to human nature. The reality is pretty much any super competitive person has met someone that is a clear superior at something they strive to be the best at. And that rival pushes that person to become better than they could have ever been on their own. In the long run it is almost the better place to be constantly in catch up mode pushing yourself to the brink in an attempt to gain any kind of advantage so you stand a chance. Even if it doesn't feel like it at the time, if you just stick with it you are getting better and you have a shot whether you actually believe it or not.

And sure the rival may put on an arrogant attitude, but that is just a mask for their crushed spirit and ego along with a bit of overcompensation. The real character comes from them continuing to push to get better. This is the character children should be looking up to.