During our lives, we are influenced by a great number of people, including family members, friends, teachers, coaches, mentors and colleagues, among others. But, as we grow older, we come to realize that a relatively small number of individuals, perhaps a half-dozen or so, have had an enduring and powerful effect on us.
These relationships usually occur during childhood or in early adulthood, when our emotional and intellectual development have not fully matured and when our belief system and career choice remain pliable. In my case, one of these persons was my college English professor; though I cannot even remember her name, she encouraged me to consider a writing career, thereby giving me confidence to indulge that passion throughout my life.
Of course, the effects of these special relationships may have been positive, negative or mixed but they live on at a distinctly conscious level. We cannot and should not deny their impact.
