Lessons Everyone Should Learn
My Mentors
I am blessed to have had many mentors in my life. I am sure that is because I needed a lot of help along the way. Here is what I've learned from some of them.
Bob Lonac Note: I love to read and I've said in the past that books can be mentors, too. This year, I'll be adding more book reviews to the blog. But, In case you missed the announcement, my new book is available. Check out "Live Large!"
A Few of My Mentors
My Dad
Wake up and go to work. Work hard. And whatever you do, be excellent at it. My dad was a fantastic carpenter. He could tell you how long a board was within an inch by just looking at it. He also taught me to measure twice, cut once. Thanks, Dad.
My Mom
My mom said, "Cleanliness is next to Godliness," was in the Bible. It's not, but it is a good lesson. Be neat. Make your bed in the morning. Set the table correctly. Chew with your mouth closed. Wash the dishes. Thanks, Mom.
Bob Runyon
Bob was my Young Life leader. Right after I met the Lord, he taught me it was essential to know the Bible, which meant memorizing verses. The first four verses I learned were in a little packet I could carry in my pocket. Keep an eye out. I am going to write a newsletter about those four verses in my next newsletter. Thanks, Bob.
Bob Reeverts
Bob was the first Regional Director who led Young Life in the Bay Area. He then became Young Life’s International Director for many years. Bob taught me the meaning of understanding your life’s mission and living it out. He had three priorities, in this order:
- Your relationship with Jesus Christ
- Your commitment to living out your calling in life every day
- Your love for and commitment to your family.
I bought into these priorities. I watched him carry this out every day. Thanks, Bob.
Tom Raley
I first met Tom when he was the speaker at Malibu during my week at camp as a high school junior. Later I served under him when I was the Area Director in San Jose. He and his wife, Recie, lived close to us. We led a Young Life club together for four years. He showed me how important it is to have quiet time every day. I watched him execute on this without exception, saw the effect it had on his life, and wanted to be like him. I am still working on being as committed as he is to spending time with God. Thanks, Tom.
Verley Sangster
Verley was the Executive Vice President who supervised me after becoming a Senior Vice President in Young Life. He had so many sayings, but the one that stayed with me to this day I still repeat to myself quite often, “Why are you taking things so personally? Get over it.” Thanks, Verley.
Gary Haugen
Gary is the founder and CEO of International Justice Mission. I reported directly to him as the COO. We met almost every week for the six years I served in this great mission. He is a man of utmost integrity. Gary has a deep passion for Jesus. He is the smartest guy I know. He taught me to live out Micah 6:8:
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Gary lives this out with a fierce passion every day in private and in public. I try to do the same. Thanks, Gary.
Fred Stabbert
Fred became the Chairman at CRISTA ministries when I became the CEO. He was a veteran of that role. He was a pro who was committed to my success and the success of the mission. Fred told me the truth. He educated me about the role of a CEO. He and his wife, Faith, took Kathleen and me under their wings. They became great friends and provided personal and professional support. Thanks, Fred.
Find mentors. Be a mentor. You will make a lifelong impact on those you take under your wing.
