THE GIFT THAT KEEPS GIVING
Recently an old friend and a dear former colleague contacted me to update me on his most recent professional accomplishments. I was delighted to hear all his good reports. It was heartwarming to say the least.
After reviewing his professional status and some of his personal victories, he made a statement that humbles me deeply:
“ I realized that without the mentoring you gave to me many years ago, I would never have accomplished these things. So, I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you. ”
Although I certainly am gratified that this person was able to affirm me in this way, the larger more important context here is that many other folks have mentored me and many other folks continue to mentor me. I would never have been in the position that I was in to mentor my old friend unless so many others had not previously mentored me. Therefore, I remain ever grateful to the untold numbers of friends, colleagues, family, and associates that took the time (and still take the time) to pour themselves into my life. My wisdom bank has been richly endowed because of it.
Mentoring is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Whom have you mentored today?
