My Mentors, My Pillars: Why I Believe in Paying it Forward

 The response to my last blog post, the one dedicated to Dr. Richard Fountain, was overwhelming. I was genuinely surprised, though perhaps I shouldn't have been. Dr. Fountain, as I'm reminded every time I attend a social event for the Pensacola business community, holds a special place in the hearts of many. (A testament to his profound impact.) The outpouring of stories and memories made me realize something about the true power of mentorship, and it prompted me to look beyond the present, to examine the threads of guidance woven throughout my life.

Particularly I want my peers and colleagues to think about those mentors who are no longer with us. Those who have passed to the other side, leaving behind their legacies of wisdom and influence, but knowledge that they can no longer pass along to the next generation. There have been many people in my life who shaped the person I am today. Some of them, unfortunately, are no longer walking the earthly plane.

So, this isn't just a post about mentorship; it's paying a tribute to the enduring power of those who guide us as professionals, even from beyond. It's a recognition that mentorship transcends physical presence, living on in the values and lessons we carry forward.

Pause now. Take a moment of silence to remember and honor the mentors, though gone, continue to shape who we are.

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Among these many people who shaped my life, two stand out with particular clarity: Ardell and Bob Patterson. They were partners in life and mentorship. Their shared commitment to service, rooted in their Catholic faith and their work with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVdP), continues to be a constant source of inspiration. They each brought unique strengths to their guidance.

Ardell, with her background in nursing and social work, possessed a deep empathy and practical ability to help those in need. I was told, after her death, that her experience during the historic Hartford Hospital Fire instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility and a commitment to safety and well-being. 

Bob, with his extensive career in education, valued intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge. His dedication to public education and his own lifelong learning exemplified the importance of continuous growth.

1. They taught me the true meaning of being a Vincentian, not just through words, but through their actions. 
2. They showed me how to serve with humility, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
3. They instilled in me the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even when it's difficult.
4. They demonstrated that integrity and ethical conduct are non-negotiable.

Even though they never met the out and proud version of myself, their lessons on human dignity and the importance of loving one another regardless of difference, set the stage for me having the courage to live my life in the way I chose.

Most important of all, Ardell's dedication to helping the most vulnerable, and Bob's passion for education and social justice, helped me solidify my own views on what is right and what is wrong.

During my teenage years and early professional life, they provided invaluable guidance and support. They were a constant presence, offering encouragement and wisdom when I needed it most. Their mentorship helped me navigate the complexities of growing up and finding my place in the world.

Though they are no longer with us, their influence remains a powerful force in my life. Their lessons, their values, and their unwavering commitment to service continue to guide me. Remembering their lives, and the way they lived them, is a way to honor their memory, and to continue their work in the world.

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As I conclude this post, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the mentors who have shaped your own life, especially those who are no longer with us. Their influence, though unseen, continues to resonate in the choices we make and the values we uphold. 

This post, intentionally shorter than I initially planned, is a testament to the raw emotion that surfaces when we remember those who have profoundly touched our lives. Writing about Ardell and Bob, and others who have passed, brought forth a wave of memories and a deep sense of gratitude, resulting in tears that flowed freely. 

It's a reminder that even in their absence, their impact remains powerfully present. Let us honor their memory by living a life that reflects the wisdom and love they shared, and by carrying their legacy forward with every step we take.