by Michelle Willoughby

Created on: November 04, 2009

A couple of years ago I had a grand opportunity to be a part of a mentoring program for young women ages 8 to 18, it was an experience that I will always hold dear to my heart. A few of us got together and planned and scripted out what we'd do and God blessed in more ways than I could even imagine.

As we worked with these young ladies, and begin to talk with them and have guess speakers to come in and talk about everything from how to walk and sit like a lady, to dining etiquette, and pursuing education and careers I found that I was not only helping them but helping myself as well. I started to examine myself the more and my actions and what drove me and what those things were that held me back. It was like watching a beautiful flower blossom right in front of your eyes.

As these young ladies came on time with pens and pads anxious to learn and to grow, It was so amazing to see the grateful parents that would cry when we'd reach out to shake their hands after a prresentation as they would explain to us what a blessing this mentoring program was to them personally and how they could see major changes in the lives of their children. In life we all get lost at one time or another, we stumble and fall but get back up with God's help. And even when we catch our balance and begin to stand on our own, and place one foot in front of the other, walking then running, and even leaping and as we mature we may fall every now and again still. But everyone needs a mentor, everyone needs someone that believes in them that can look past the exterior of color or status, and look into your soul and see the beauty that has been placed there.

Some people never discover the inner treasures that were placed in them by God and it takes a special person such as a mentor, to unearth these gifts and assist you in presenting them to the world. Words seem to fail me in expressing the sheer joy and the unseen rewards of mentorship. It is a healing and a fortification to both the receiver and the giver. It places hope in the hopeless, it builds character and discipline, it is a friend to the friendless, and comforts the lonely and downtrodden in spirit. My heart is so filled by what I experienced and the love that grew for each child and even though we are no longer, I still remember these ladies. Some have went on to college and other successes and others chose to take a different route, but we had a moment in their lives where we laid sound foundation and principles that will help them to make it in this very competitive, cold, but brilliant world. Serving as a mentor has enriched my life immensely and I will never forget how I've been touched through serving and giving.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Willoughby.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.