Yeah, this is somewhat of an old topic. I'll apologise now if that's a problem, but I do want to put my opinion out there... (Hey, consider it a compliment on how inspiring this topic is...)
First off, a few comments on stuff that's already been mentioned:
1. Alternatives to "Shiny Good." I cannot give enough +1s to this. The beacon of Good, shining paragon and example to all paladin type is not the only way to be good. (A quick aside: I like the Paladin. In fact, flavour wise, it's probably my favourite class. So, not ragging on Paladins.)
2. More options for Good characters. Yes. Especially for non divine characters. Dudemeister's idea of non divine Good abilities is especially interesting. Although I will suggest as a twist on the concept of the "divine" relationship, (quotes because I'm not exactly sure if this comes under divine or "Other") the possibility of a (probably minor) Good outsider (As a side question: Is there a blanket term for these (a la "Fiend" for evil outsiders) that I've missed?) takes an interest in a particularly Good individual. (i.e. not "I am good because I have a link to the divine" but "I have a link to the divine because I am good" if that actually makes sense outside my head)
3. Ways for Good to be subtle. again, yes. kind of ties in to point 1, but applies to just about every class - Good acts are not automatically flashy. In some cases, the "best" good acts may be the ones that aren't fully discovered until some time later.
4. Worship of Dou-Bral.Whoever mentioned this, a thousand times yes. (I can't remember while writing this. I'll edit in credit later) I've occasionally considered this or a similar character in other campaign worlds. (i.e. a character somehow sealed away from the world being revived, not knowing that some horror befell his deity since, and wondering about the funny looks he gets any time it comes up...)
Edit: It was Mikaze. (somehow, I'm not surprised. That I forgot or that it was Mikaze...
and now -drum-roll please- *sound of tin can bouncing down stairs* ...close enough. my own bit.
First off, the distinction between Good alignment and good actions. Probably shouldn't need to be said, but there are some people who consider any evil (or less applicable to the discussion, but worth mentioning, good) act to immediately be a breach of Good(Evil) alignment, splitting every thinking being into a very few shining paragons, a just as few puppy kicking monsters and a large mass of "neutral" individuals of which about 2/3 would by any other standards be classed as Good or Evil. Flawed or atoning characters are generally more interesting to play or play alongside, I think.
Second... hm. Can't think of anything else right now. Guess most of the good (no pun intended) ideas have been come up with... or I'm tired. Probably the ideas that are exhausted, though...
Wow, that was long...