| Footsteps to Follow |
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He was a young, impetuous and confused boy. His first meeting with Father Joe did not magically transform Tony Hendra. But over the course of a remarkable 40 year friendship, the gentle and saintly monk had the most profound influence on Tony’s life. In the wonderful book, Father Joe, Hendra (comedy writer for National Lampoon, as well as many British TV programs), tells the story of his wild ride of a life, filled with triumph, tragedy, flaws and temptations. His letters to and from Father Joe, and his occasional visits to the Benedictine Abbey, were check-in times with a man who became the face of Christ to Tony, someone who knew him, warts and all, and loved him anyway. Many times, Tony felt he’d lost his faith entirely, but Father Joe never lost his faith in Tony. Father Joe is a “thank you” note to a world-class mentor.
We hear a lot about mentors. In the business world, men and women who achieve success are often quoted as thanking this or that person who mentored them, who gave them advice, encouragement and support at a critical point in their professional lives. School teachers, most deservedly, are frequently credited with mentoring students, who look back on their relationship with fondness and gratitude. Steve and I love our kids beyond all measure, but we don’t pretend we can do the whole job of bringing them up alone. We owe the greatest measure of gratitude to the “angels” that God has placed in our children’s paths at pivotal times in their lives. These amazing people have given themselves: their own gifts and talents, their warm hearts and listening ears, comforting them in their disappointments and rejoicing in their happiness. I think of Jim Grant, the extraordinary composer and wonderfully kind and generous person, who has mentored our eldest son since Sheridan was 14 years old. To quote Sheridan: “Jim is a first-rate teacher... he allows me incredible freedom, while still teaching advanced compositional techniques and skills... he taught me the most important principle of all: to think freely for myself.” Jim now lives and works in Toronto, but theirs is still a treasured friendship, and Jim is still the one to whom Sheridan often turns for advice about music and life. But we don’t even have to leave our congregation to think of our children’s mentors. Those lucky enough to know Tim Keller will not be surprised to learn that he has been Evan’s mentor for many years, inspiring Evan to follow his example of modesty, humor, courage, honor and unswerving loyalty. By personifying the best kind of Naval officer, and the best kind of friend. Tim gave Evan a gift he’ll carry though the Naval Academy and far beyond. And I could go on and on, mentioning the trio of incredible women who have mentored Mo—Sally Beil, Holly Carlson, Mary Ellen Myers--, and all the other wonderful people at Christ’s who help Steve and myself to guide our children. This winter, the confirmation class will choose their mentors, non-family members they admire within our church family. For the next year and a half, they will each have another significant adult to partner with them for study, for fellowship, for support. If an 8th grader asks you to be a mentor, please say yes. He or she is paying you a high compliment, and giving you the opportunity to make an incredible difference in a young life—more of a difference than you may ever know. |
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