The past month I’ve experienced the loss of three dear friends and mentors. They each went Home in God’s perfect time, but it felt far too early. These individuals made a lifelong impact on me and countless others, and I want to emulate these friends.
Here are just three of the many lessons they taught me:
– Coach Shoemaker: Never settle for mediocrity
My coach on the soccer field at Messiah, Coach Shoemaker still coached me long after my cleats gathered dust. Working at HOPE, I met with him regularly. Over oatmeal (he always chose the healthy menu items) he would offer encouragement and wise counsel. Over time, I learned that he was just passionate about soccer; he was passionate about helping people develop and achieve more than they thought possible . Teaching discipline in soccer was just an outgrowth of his desire to train young men and women to live lives pursuing excellence. http://obits.pennlive.com/obituaries/pennlive/obituary.aspx?pid=162107574
– Aloisea Inyumba: Never too busy to miss an opportunity to help
As Governor of a major province in Rwanda, head of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission following the genocide, Senator, as well as the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Aloisea held positions of tremendous power. She was deeply involved in rebuilding a nation – and she also made time to give my son Myles his first baby gift. Aloisea was always available to help. Whether it was making time to advise me on labor code issues or rescuing me when I was being harassed by a traffic officer, Aloisea demonstrated that there is always time to help your friends. Her humble service and willingness to serve are what I’ll remember most. http://allafrica.com/stories/201212100133.html.
– Pennie Thurman: Courageously say what needs to be said
It was a conversation with Pennie over an Indian meal in Kinshasa, Congo, that changed my life. She and her husband Eric convinced me to move to Lancaster to join HOPE. Pennie had a gift with words. Her words were spoken in love, but she wasn’t afraid to challenge. Pennie forced you to think differently and to dream bigger dreams. She said what needed to be said causing me and many others to consistently step out in faith. (HOPE’s annual award for an entrepreneur who demonstrates courageous hope is called the Thurman Award – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw-UwiZRcY4&list=UU6EStQZDnwhirDWyC9pR6iQ&index=10.) http://www.christiancommunity.org/index/in_memory_of.html
More important than demonstrating courage, service, and a commitment to excellence, they were devoted followers of Jesus. I miss these three friends dearly, but take great hope knowing I will see them again. And until I do, I am strengthened by their example of beautiful and inspiring faith in action.
