Mentor sounds good. It’s not a guru – where you feel it’s toxic, too much, manipulation. It’s not a guide. It’s maybe in the middle…
It’s not a muse, nor an authority, it’s not a coach, not your parents, or disturbers.
I’m reading Irving Yalom‘s autobiography, where he tells his constant need, during his growing life, for a mentor. An adult person who would have “detected” his uniqueness, his talents, his whatever makes one special…
Then, this person would guide you a little, would show you things you should know, and would probably tell your parents (who aren’t aware, of course).
It’s a cousin-pattern of many things, linked to Types,
- like the teacher who unblocks you with a single phrase,
- the uncle who offers you a magnifier (or a telescope),
- the best friend who marks/scars you forever with a single innocent observation,
- the soul-mate lover who disturbed you so much you’re reconfigured in the whole of you, or almost.
Wishing you had a mentor is almost a Type in itself : overthinkers, introverts, shy people, book lovers, quiet seekers.
Everybody needs attention and understanders (and I think it’s why some love stories are so intense), good conversation lovers, listeners, good askers. Here, it’s something else, right? Not sure…
Every other helper I listed here can embody the role of the Mentor… one needs. Someone who gets you, even in a 2 seconds sentence,
- points you out to others
- shows you possible paths (doors, windows)
Well, we should NOT need that, but… we do what we can!
Have you met a mentor? Have you been a mentor to a kid? Should you? How?
Thanks for reading!
a french toolbox 