Key Figures in My Life: Lessons from Men

On the surface, this looks easy.

It isn’t.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 27:17 that “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This implies a never-ending process, a forging of a strong tool in this world. Forging metal often involves pounding, heating, quenching, and of course, sharpening. The men in our lives, especially the ones who challenged me or didn’t sugar coat things are the ones that have made me a man.

From the lofty position of age 68, I look back and see a lot of different men were holding the hammers and heating the furnace or quenching me to make me who I am today. Often times their counsel was tough, but it got me back on track.

I am by no means, a finished instrument. Even today, I encounter men who still make me. Some are older, most are younger. I find qualities in them that are worth emulating. I suppose that process will end the day I take my final breath. After all, how we face death is as important as how we face life.

So, let’s start making a list:

Grandpa Willie Malouff: That hard work can make a difference. He arrived in this country from a foreign land, had a third-grade education, and of course died richer than he should have.

Father Peter Verde: That standing your ground is a good thing. To question absolutely everything. And that “hello”, “please”, and “thank you” are words worthy of having in your vocabulary and should be used often.

Coach Tony Valdez: That even if you’re not a footballs star, you’re still important. Coach saw us nerds as people and encouraged us.

Dr. Lynn Weldon: To never accept someone else’s answers. Research it. Test it. See if it works. To think for yourself.

Sheriff Toby Madrid: Grace. ‘Nuff said.

Bill Mahan: To fall in love with history.

Willie Ulibarri: To have fun.

Dr. Carl (the Sage) Sagan: I never met him, but he blew my mind and inspired me to look up and wonder.

My dad: Who showed me the Moon.

Avelino Muniz: A cousin who gave me a much need kick in the pants when I was down and set me back on the path.

Add to that –

Basic and AIT Drill Sgts. Most were men, but there were some women tossed in who held the hammers and provided the anvil.

Several dozen other college profs.

Countless pastors to include Tracy McWilliams, Patrick Devine, and Alan Kraft. They taught me to love God.

Friends to include my partner in crime Toby Madrid Jr, Greg Carlson, and countless others.