Mentors

The dictionary defines a mentor as a wise and trusted counselor or teacher!

Think about it and see if that description fits anyone in your life?

Let me tell you about one particular mentor in my life!

In May '06 I started on the journey of becoming a court reporter. Sitting in my first class I realized that this is a move that was forever going to change my life. In October of that same year I came to know my mentor and friend that was truly a God send during this time in my life. The thing is, I've never met this person face to face, but this is a person I've come to admire, respect, and trust. Let me start from the beginning...

One evening at class a classmate brought in this article that she found on the NCRA (National Court Reporters Association) website. Please take the time to read it, this is a great read for anyone who is in pursuit of anything. Each time I read it, it's like I'm reading it for the very first time. It's an article that forever changed my life, and formed a wonderful friendship, and it was written by my mentor, Michelle Smith.

I was so inspired and touched by it that I contacted the NCRA to see if I could get contact information for Michelle so I could get in touch with her. I was able to get it and from then on, a friendship was formed.

I couldn't imagine walking this road and getting through school without her encouragement and support. She's like a cheerleader on the sidelines, and I'm in the game and she's cheering me on whether I make it to the goal and even at those times when I fumble the ball. Except she's walked the road before me and has been where I'm at and she truly knows how hard it is to get to the goal in obtaining a career in court reporting! She has invested so much time in me and many many emails listening to me vent out my frustrations and concerns!

Little did I know that someone living in Nashville, TN., and whom I've never met would have such an impact on my life. And to her, I will forever be grateful.

So I ask, who is that Michelle in your life?? And if there is that person in your life, let them know how much you love and appreciate them. Because for God to bring that kind of person to you is such a special thing!

And tonight I'm heading out to celebrate with another special mentor and person in my life, my Mom. As I said yesterday she's getting married tomorrow, and so we're heading down south for the wedding. I'll talk to you when I get back, and most definitely pictures are to follow!! :)