Gracefully Aging, Day 17 : A Responsiblity to Mentor Part 2

My older sister and my late mom...two of my most precious mentors

In my last post, I talked about the importance of older women sharing their wisdom with younger women in the form of teaching and/or mentoring.

I had asked this question on Facebook:

Ladies, is there a woman older than you that you look up to as a mentor, role model or inspiration? Who is she and why?

Here are more of the replies I received:

Sherry:  My mom has always been there for me through my losses and gains. I love her so much.

Renata:  My mom, Debra. She is an independent, hard working, compassionate, loving, giving, intelligent person. She is my inspiration to be a stronger, wiser person.

Gail:  It's funny that you would ask this question. I have a lady who became an inspiration to me back in 1982 in Washington, D. C. She was my employer for about 3 years. Unfortunately, I did not remain in touch with her over the years. But, I thought of her many times and spoke of her quite often. With the help of modern technology, I've been able to reconnect with her on Facebook after all these years. She relocated to Colorado.

The lady I'm so proud to speak of is someone I'd rather not reveal her name at this time without having her permission. She is now in her 80's. I have told her on Facebook how important she has been to me over the years. She became my employer at a quasi governmental agency in Washington, D. C. She also happened to be from the South. I was hired to be an Administrative Assistant and was compensated generously during my employment.

I found my employer to be an awesome lady. She was professional in every sense of the word. Not only was she gorgeous, but she was amazing. She believed in her faith and was also health conscious. She was married and had children. She led our agency with unbelieveable commitment and passion concerning the education of children. We presented information to the Governor of Maryland. I was involved in producing a published report of our findings which I still have. I was even named in the credits.

My employer not only stayed focused on our mission, but she also showed concern for my well being. If I were sick, she'd bring me rice pudding. She would bring fresh cut flowers for my desk. She instilled in me a desire to be professional in every way that became a part of who I am today. She also provided me the paid opportunity for continuing education. One of those classes was concerning understanding the U. S. Congress.

Kathy:  Mine has been in heaven several years. She prayed for me and sent notes of encouragement.

Tina: My Mom! Her love for the Lord, & her servant's heart!

Is there such a woman in your life? Or maybe you have been able to mentor and encourage a younger woman? Tell me in my comments!

I'm participating in "31 Days: A Writing Challenge,"  in which I 'll be blogging on the subject of Gracefully Aging every day during the month of October.  Click the button below for more information and links to each post as they become available!