The Notes & Melodies of my Life

I was reminded tonight of how much I love mentoring young (and not so young) people.

My wife and I were watching “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” (for probably the 28^th time) and what might be my favorite scene came up. In this scene “Mr. Holland,” a high school music teacher, has set aside a daily half-hour to work with a young lady who was experiencing a difficult time learning to play the clarinet. 

“Miss Lane” has a unique knack for hitting sour notes, and, of course, Mr. Holland winces each time this occurs. 

Suddenly, her teacher’s countenance changes. He has an idea.

“Miss Lane, when you look into the mirror, what do you like most about yourself?”

The young girl pauses, and responds. “My hair. My father says it reminds him of the sunset.”

Mr. Holland smiles. “Close your eyes, and… play the sunset.”

You can imagine this time around Miss Lane’s rendition goes off without a hitch. Her selection is nothing short of beautiful.

It seems the principal once accused Mr. Holland of putting out sufficient effort, but lacking a “compass.” And this lack of a compass enhanced his inability to make any difference whatsoever in the lives of his pupils. 

Years go by, and Mrs. Jacobs is preparing to retire. And in a leisurely moment after her final school graduation, she takes Mr. Holland aside, and shares a few words with him.

“Mr. Holland, of all the teachers at John F. Kennedy High School, you’re my favorite,” and the principal pulls out a little wooden box, and folds it into his hands.

The aging music teacher opens the lid to reveal a… compass.

Mr. Holland’s eyes fill with tears, and he smiles a whimsical smile.

Over the past couple of decades God has been gracious to allow me to assume the roles of counselor, teacher and mentor.

I have counseled thousands. I have taught hundreds. I have mentored dozens.

I hope, I pray I have been a compass to those whom God has set in my pathway.

I believe I have adequately fulfilled that role. I cannot be responsible for the good, bad or indifferent results of my efforts. I cannot be responsible for any mediocrity which flows from those whom I once considered “People of Excellence.” I have, and will continue to joy in the success of those who have exceeded my expectations, and who have gone on to impact the next generation in my name. 

And increasingly I understand that my efforts are time-limited. I do what I do, as best as I can possibly do it, and then, (as difficult as it is, and has been,) I must step away, and allow providence to do its best work.

Oh God, what an inestimable privilege I have been given to make some small difference in the lives you have entrusted to my care.


By William McDonald, PhD. Excerpt from "(Mc)Donald's Daily Diary" Vol. 15. Vol.s 1-15, copyright 2015

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