A Life-Changing Encounter with an American Hero
A Memorable Day
It’s a day etched in my memory forever – January 1986, when I had the privilege of hosting Apollo 15 astronaut James Irwin for a speaking engagement. Little did I know that this day would become even more unforgettable due to the tragic loss of the space shuttle Challenger.
Breaking the News
As I drove to the airport, I received the devastating news of the Challenger disaster. Upon meeting James, I had the difficult task of breaking the news to him. The media frenzy that followed was intense, with numerous outlets clamoring for interviews. Yet, James handled each event with remarkable calmness and poise.
A Quiet Moment of Wisdom
As the day drew to a close, I found myself seeking advice from this American hero. As a father of four small children, I was eager to learn from someone who had successfully raised four grown children. In a quiet moment, I asked James, “What advice would you give me?” His response was surprisingly simple yet profound: “Mike, always make sure they know you love them.”
The Power of Unconditional Love
At the time, I thought to myself, “Is that all?” But years later, when one of my children faced a challenging period and began seeing a counselor, James’ words came flooding back. The counselor revealed that my child’s knowledge of our unconditional love was a significant factor in their ability to cope. It was then that I realized the immense power behind James’ seemingly straightforward advice.
A Timeless Message
Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John 13:34-36 (NIV) echo James’ wisdom: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” These words remind us that love is the foundation upon which strong relationships are built.
A Lasting Legacy
My encounter with James Irwin left an indelible mark on my life. His wisdom continues to guide me as a father, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with others. May we all strive to instill in our children the knowledge that they are deeply loved, and may this love be the foundation upon which they build their lives.
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