Director Dan Gaken from the Leadership Institute at Central Michigan University put it best when he said, “You are the leader of today.” Unfortunately, at that moment when he said that I couldn’t think what he meant by it. Even though it obviously means I am the leader of today what exactly does that guarantee that I can do for my followers? Plus, what qualifications do I have to lead?
Looking back of how I have risen up from being that follower to a leader I was influenced by many great and notable people’s words and guidance. These people aren’t not at all alive to this day. However, there are a few who are alive. One person in particular saw me as a potential leader and put me under his wing, so I may grow with the confidence I need.
Robert J. Richard is my mentor who I greatly admire. His life has been filled with an adventure that was granted to him by becoming an Eagle Scout. Born in 1935 he was raised under his parents and with a scouting background. He graduated college at Carnegie Mellon University, joined a Jewish fraternity (he is actually catholic), went to the 1955 world championships w/ the Green Bay Packers (he was on the team), became an Eagle scout, became a scoutmaster, earned a degree in Space Engineering, sent a man on the moon w/ NASA, became a well known chef, works on radios, etc. There is so much about him that I could talk for at least a good 2 hours. However, his life is worth more than 2 hours. He could be just yanking my chains, but I have seen proof in his words and in the bond that we share.
Mr. Richard (my adopted family member) has also successfully mentored me in getting my Eagle. This dubious award is my milestone that best defines who I am. Usually, I tell people what I did, but when they ask me who helped I would always say my mentor Mr. Richard.
Right now he is very sick and has cancer, and I am sad with tears I am holding back. I can’t do much except pray. I always intend to go see him and his wife Sue. They are my family. When the day comes and he is no longer physically there I won’t forget him. I won’t ever dare think he is dead, for his life and memory will live on. I will tell my friends who I have to thank for my life. I will tell the world if I have to. Robert J. Richard is the most interesting man in the world. What I will do is I won’t let my Eagle Scout Award go in vain, and I will live everyday. Carpe the heck out of your Diem.
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