I’m about 1/3 through reading a book called ‘Midlife Manual for Men’, and have gotten to the point where the authors ask me to list 3 men in my personal life who have meant the most to me, along with the characteristics which make them admirable. At first I had a tough time coming up with more than one, but as I listed all the men I know who have meant something to me along my journey, I was able to narrow it down to the three I admire most. My good friend Mel who encouraged and mentored me during some of the most difficult years of my life; my father who remained faithful and provided for our family, despite the personal and financial obstacles he faced; and one longtime friend who has a true heart for God, and whom I have always been able to share with and count on.
Alongside this list, I made notes on 15 men who have been a part of my life, some have been positive examples, others have been somewhat of a disappointment. I listed a characteristic of each man that I felt would describe them best. A i described one friend, the word that I felt fit him best was 'follower'. Although this friend is a leader, he has become an admirer and follower of some great men. Great ministers, leaders and businessmen from whom he wishes to learn from and in who’s footsteps he has decided to follow. As I thought of this friend, I saw him as a compilation of the men he admires.
I paused at this thought, and wondered who my friend would be if these men had not influenced his life or if he had not decided to follow in their footsteps? I wondered about his motivation to follow in these men’s footsteps, was it to become a ‘copy’ of the men he so admired? I struggled with this thought for a moment, and the question of who am I? Am I the compilation of those I‘ve admired and allowed to influence me? Who would I be without the influence of these men? And what part of the ‘real me’ remains?
Clearly we are all followers, as well as unique creations. Our families, piers, mentors and friends have all influenced and formed who we are. God creates the framework and life weaves in the pattern. Woven into us naturally are bits and pieces of people we admire adding texture and color to the unique tapestry of who we are. A wonderful design of God as described in Psalm 139...
3 You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways...
13 For You formed my inward parts, You covered me in my mother’s womb.
14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made,..
15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret,..
16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed, And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.
Our lives are an amazing tapestry woven through birth, and woven through life. As we admire and learn from the lives of others, let us never forget what unique individuals God has created us to be.
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