Mentors Needed
Likewise, teach the older women to be
reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine,
but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their
husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to
be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the
word of God.
– Titus 2:3-5
She wanted a mentor. Desperately. Tears filled her
eyes. She just needed to talk to someone who understood how hard it is to
balance husband, kids, work, life.
She’s not alone. There is a desperation coming from
younger women, especially mothers, who need someone to guide them and advise
them as they juggle their many roles. Unfortunately, that next generation isn’t
always willing to step up.
I know. They’re busy. Some of them are still juggling
careers and family, this time with grandchildren and adult children. They’re
active socially. They have lives. Who wants to invest precious time in someone
they probably don’t know?
A Bible study was suggested. What a great idea! Except
that it is something mostly populated by younger women. Not always, of course.
But often enough to make someone above 60 a treasure when she attends.
Everyone needs an older, trusted advisor and friend. I
have a dear one and I am so thankful for her. I didn’t even know I needed her
until I “inherited” her from my Mother. She speaks truth in my life when I need
it. She gives an unwavering shoulder when tears overflow. She is someone to
laugh and share stories with.
Sometimes I think our relationship is one-sided. She
gives so much to me. Then I remember that it really is a two-way friendship. I
check on her, laugh with her, and am quick to help whenever I can. I have
plenty of experience taking people to doctor appointments and such. She knows
she can depend on me.
I think of other friends who would give anything to
spend time with children. They either don’t have grandchildren or their own
grandchildren live far away. What a blessing it would be to share a homecooked
meal, cheer someone else’s child along at a game, or share a coffee and some
conversation.
The challenge comes in trying to bring together two
diverse groups of women. You can’t force a connection. It just doesn’t happen
that way. True friendships take time to cultivate. That’s hard in this busy
life of ours.
We are trying different things. Bible journaling class
brings a cross section of women of all ages together for study and laughter.
Crafting classes do the same. The more barriers we break down, the more hopeful
I am that those mentoring connections will develop.
If you’re a young person seeking a mentor, -- both
women and men need mentors -- open your heart to those around you. Take part in
activities that might include all different age groups. And if you’re someone
who has entered the next stage of your life, consider sharing your wisdom with
someone younger. You’ve learned a lot by living your life, whether you’re aware
of it or not. That relationship will fill you up in ways you never imagined.
Give it a try.
