Some my heroes were and are flawed individuals. Even as I think about it, I cannot think of anyone on my hero list that is not flawed in one way or another. Initially the realization bothered me. With time I have come to appreciate the following.
Embedded deep within me is a need to understand the motivation behind advice. Experience suggests that advice from questionable sources is as often bad as it is good. When a hero shares, especially when it starts with “We’ve sinned a lot, both we and our parents; We’ve fallen short, hurt a lot of people,” (Psalm 106.6) I know the audience is as much internal as it is external (me).
The settings for the best advice I have received have come from a foundation of trust and shared journeys. There is nothing prescriptive about the words. Often they come in the form of a story. It is as if their learnings are shared with me as an unconditional gift.
Advice is rarely a singular event. Great advice is usually it is part of an ongoing dialogue that comes with understanding, compassion, and acceptance. It is planted, nurtured, and shaped in a way that is helpful to the recipient. It is never seems forced. The best advice leaves me feeling as if there was no manipulation, agenda, or predetermined outcomes.
It is interesting to think of my heroes and the defining moments of my life. Often as not, there was someone in the background – inspiring, encouraging, and supporting. To each, I hope you know you have made a positive difference in my life. My thankfulness has not ended. I am in your debt and as part of my repayment I want to in turn share my learnings with others who may find it useful. Your unconditional gifts have helped me see the potential that exists in every human being.
As a new day starts, I am stuck by just how much there remains to be done – within and without. It is time to reach for more. May our best aspirations be real.
