Most people can surpass their present level with some encouragement. While one can engage in self-encouragement, it works faster and better when it comes from a third party, particularly those we hold dear. In our last meditation, I mentioned the appreciable progress that I have made in learning French. I also hinted that that happened because I chose to apply myself to it. However, that does not give the entire picture. The progress made cannot be divorced from the tireless efforts of my teachers. They call me repeatedly to schedule classes, mostly online. They burn data to have me on. When I show some frustration at my slow pace, they would assure me that I will get better with time. Sometimes, the thought of not wanting to disappoint them for all their investment is the motivation that keeps me going. You cannot over-stress the role of mentors in arriving at a better version of ourselves.

You need to have one or two persons looking over your shoulder who will keep giving you the push needed. Having a mentor can be a catalyst for optimum performance.

Joshua was one of Moses’ young men. He had waited patiently on Moses for years. When it was time to pass the baton of leadership, God told Moses to pick Joshua. Apart from picking Joshua, God told Moses to “encourage him”. Imagine being asked to take over from such an iconic leader like Moses. He was a prophet of no mean reputation. He had performed unprecedented miracles. Taking over from such a man will come with some dread. That was why Joshua needed to be encouraged. It turned out that Joshua discharged his duties creditably well. You need to have one or two persons looking over your shoulder who will keep giving you the push needed. Having a mentor can be a catalyst for optimum performance.