I have always appreciated those who mentored me formally and informally through my life. Formally, at school, work, the arts, sports, you may be assigned a mentor for a defined period of time. Informally, mentors simply happen. In your family, school, friendship circles, work, leisure activities, a person begins giving help or advice to you, or you begin mentoring someone. The added bonus is that mentors often become life-long friends.
Mentoring is one of the essential tools for human learning. Is it innate in our being? I feel so, I hope so, but that is a question for further research. Regardless, whenever a mentor presents her/himself to you, embrace it. Open yourself up. Be mentored. Soak up all the knowledge you can. And then, mentor others.
Your mentor may be older or younger. I am thankful for all my mentors older than me as I grew up–teachers, fellow writers, co-workers, bosses, family, relatives, and older friends. I am also thankful for the young mentors who mentored me through the years in technology, computer software, my cell phone, fitness, and wine—yes wine!
Who have been/are your mentors? Who have you mentored/are mentoring now?
Good Mentoring to you! Share knowledge. Make a lifelong friend.