This begins a 4-6 part series on kinds/types of mentors that easily encourage living fully into the Circle of Life...he types with a grin and some forward thinking, hoping and planning for where this blog is headed. Therefore, you are invited to travel along for the next several Mondays. Hearing your own unfolding story, and dialogue, sincerely is always welcome.
This Monday? Today? Primary Mentors--Part A.......
In the develpment of the Circle of Life mentoring model, I’m realizing, often, that what is being written about, shared, taught, experienced right up to today was being and continues to be formed in all of my life...in all 8 dimensions.
“Kids,” now in their own 40s, 50s and 60s, who were in two youth groups I led in the tulmultous 60s into the 70s have let me know that. More than thankful am I for their input after all these years...so that we know this lasts...if...lived into.
Even though today, Memorial Day in the US of A, is for remembering military veterans and their families, I am taking the opportunity on this day for being grateful for the “mentoring veterans” who have deeply impacted my own life...Primary Mentors. Lighthouses, beacons of hope, as I've grown through the "Thirds of Life." These, among many who have had influence on me (which I will write about in future blog posts), still rise to the surface of my gratitude for having clearly, intentionally spoken into my whole life...as primary mentors.
For me, a first primary mentor was my sister-in-law’s grandfather. Though briefly a part of my childhood (the First Third of Life), he helped me to see there was a much larger world beyond the small town in which I was being raised...he challenged me to develop a sense of adventure that still surges through my soul on this day. Seriously and significantly, I would easily confide that my sister-in-law saved my life as a child...but that’s also a very personal story, known to those who are closest to me...and a few good couselors along the way.
Then, continuing through the First Third of my life, growing up through the teen years, which were way more difficult for me than most would know, and into my 20s, two youth leaders, one from a church, and one from Young Life were guiding lights on this path called life. Moving from my 20s into my 30s (growing up some more from the First Third into the Second Third of Life) a college professor, a college counselor and a grad school leader became primary influencers.
The 40s (by now well into the Second Third of Life) saw a need for other mentors and also some life-giving counselors. That grad school leader also continued in the role of primary mentor. Added to that was a relationship with a senior church leader in another state that continues to this day.
Of these eight primary mentors during my lifetime...only three remain on this side of heaven. All of them are close to or into their 80s. The time with them is significantly limited...two I’m still in touch with. But from all eight are life-lessons I lean into every day.
In a few days I will cross the threshold of being 69 (...whew!, well into the Third Third of Life), and begin the march toward being seven decades old. Because of these sainted souls I’ve mentioned I am still here...still standing, even though some fierce storms have come my way. I am still committed to living life to the max!...even when circumstances have almost taken me out.
I am still standing, thank God!!!...firmly standing with all the courage and strength the Triune has promised if we will follow Jesus. This woman and these men, in large measure have been the Primary Mentors in my own life. I am frankly startled and amazed, humbled and grateful, at the life I’ve been allowed to lead right up to this day.
Next week, in Mentoring Mondays...#22, I will more fully define a Primary Mentor. But...for now...may I encourage you to think back over your own existence and remember those several individuals who have truly influenced you for the good. Then...send them a note of thanks and gratitude for their lingering impact on your own life...as we live through this day of remembering 2011.
Will you do that?
Today?
Good. Thank you!
Let the blessings roll on.......!!!
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