You think you know your partner, but this weekend I learned so much about him that I didn’t know through someone else’s lens.
Many years ago, he and his family graciously volunteered to take an exchange student into their home who was in a less-than-desirable situation. This act of kindness changed that young man’s life and the life of that family.
Over the years my partner stayed close to him mentoring him through college, his first job, challenges, and happy events of life. The exchange student followed in my partner’s footsteps, choosing a position in the same industry. They always had plenty to talk about, figure out, and debate.
This past weekend the exchange student and his wife came to visit. He brought pictures from years past, each having a story behind it. It was clear he had given thought to why he wanted to visit – to let my partner know what an impact he had made on his life. Pouring through story after story he took every opportunity to remind my partner how important he was to the success of this middle-aged man.
Now when I look at my partner I see a mentor, coach, and influencer. I am so grateful for that visit which will always mean the world to my partner.