The birthday of my daughter, Alli, was last week, and she had 6 of her very close, long-term friends visit her from the States to help her celebrate. It was amazing on many levels because of the history and connection that these friends share and also because of the importance of friends as we journey through life. Of course, it reminded me of the Hero’s Journey (which most everything does) and the significance of the mentors and allies that we encounter on our journey.
In the second step – The Preparation module of our new “A Hero’s Journey” course (https://lifepathmasters.com/courses/a-heros-journey/), we talk about mentors and allies and how important it is to identify them and accept their help along the way. They are especially important as we move beyond the familiar way of doing things; which seems to be happening more often these days.
In stories based on The Hero’s Journey, a guide always appears to help the hero — such as Obi Wan Kenobi in Star Wars (I talked about Star Wars in my last newsletter!). These guides are called allies or mentors, such as old friends, new friends, family members and others who support you. These allies and mentors provide you with the support and tools you need to move forward in the face of fear and the unknown. When we try to walk alone during these times, the journey can be much more challenging.
So, I want to encourage you to be aware of who your mentors and allies are and also encourage you to call upon them when you need them. I certainly have. Remember the Beatles famous song, “With a Little Help from My Friends”? The video is below for a walk down memory lane. “Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends” is an important mantra to keep in your mind during tough times.
You might ask yourself some important questions when searching for these mentors and allies such as:
Who are the ones that have the knowledge or tools that I need in the areas I really don’t know very much about?
Who can offer support when I feel discouraged or doubtful?
Who are my teachers, mentors, guides and guardians, etc.? These mentors can be actual people like your friends or family members, or they can even be exemplary historical or mythological figures that you look up to.
It’s important to look for certain qualities in the allies we choose. For example, an ally is someone who will be by your side and can relate to what you’re going through. Maybe they are someone who has experienced what you’re dealing with and can relate to you and truly understand your situation. As a result, when you are facing a difficult transition or just having a difficult day, the support of these mentors and these companions will help to guide your way.
A mentor or ally can also have a different perspective from your own and you can actually learn from their viewpoint. They may have different opinions but can still support your journey by sharing their thoughts and ideas. I encourage you to try to choose allies that are “straight shooters” and help you stay true to yourself and your desires.
As an exercise, reflect on and name at least five people, groups or organizations who are or could be companions or have the qualities to be companions on your Hero’s Journey. These people should be able to support you right where you are but also inspire and challenge you to take the next step forward.
On your list (it can be longer!), add their email contact and phone numbers so that you can reach out to them and also be sure to be available to help them in any way you can.
As 20th century sage and self-improvement pioneer Dale Carnegie said… “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” My best advice – Be the kind of friend you want to have.
I’d love to hear your comments about the importance of mentors and allies in your life. I know who mine are. Do you?
10 thoughts on “With a Little Help from My Friends”
Hi Beverly,
Thanks for putting your wisdom out there for all of us to imbibe. You have been a distant but very important mentor in my life. Also, since it is that time in Mexico, loved ones who have passed can still be friends and mentors. For instance, my Dad who died many years ago still comes to me when I need support and advice–he was (is) a very wise one. Also, I have found great help from my wisdom plant friends who I can get high with and learn from. Also, my dog Osa is always there to bring my spirits up–an unconditional source of love. These allies are in addition to the living beings who have supported me throughout my life. Yes, mentors and allies are absolutely necessary on this Earth path.
Gratefully,
Liz
Michael Gott, my friend for many years, has helped me in powerful ways with the quiet treasures in the lyrics of his songs. His words explode in my head like dynamite when I need them. In a song Michael wrote recently, he says,
“We all need a friend to remember who we are.”
What a beautiful insight.
And he says in another that the people we know who are angels on earth cannot fly because they only have one wing; they can fly only when they find a friend who has the other one.
Beverly, please encourage your readers to rely on Michael’s music as a friend. It is a powerful one. He has written a wealth of songs that will grip your soul. “Amazing,” “Release and Let Go,” “I Am,” “What If Now.”
You know personally the impact Michael has. Remember his words and music at Daddy’s funeral?
Beverly,
My dear friend, mentor, ally and guide…sage, wonderful advice, as always.
Love.
Thanks, Pamela. And, that is true of you, as well! Thanks for being my mentor and ally! Beverly
Yes, I remember Michael Gott well. He touched my heart every time I heard him play the piano and sing the lyrics to his amazing songs, especially at Dad’s funeral. Thank you, Sharon, for being my mentor, sister, and ally all of these years. I love and appreciate you so much. Beverly
Liz, What wise words these are. Thanks for reminding us all about loved ones who have passed, the wisdom plants who surround us, and our animals. They are truly amazing allies and mentors that provide unconditional love and support. Blessings to you on this journey through life and beyond, Beverly
I am not sure who we are for each other, but you told me once after a Camino meeting “I know you, I know how to handle you”.
It actually sounded reassuring.
For my side, I am rooting for you and could be more if pressed into service.
Thanks, JP. I’m very happy to know that you are rooting for me and I am for you. Knowing this gives me reassurance, as well! Beverly
It has been so nice to read all of these comments, I have read each more than once, I believe you all are now in a way, my mentors. I am still ‘learning’ and ‘listening’. I am eager to learn more. Beverly, you are my ‘mentor of mentors’ , anyone who has ever met you and spoken with you, I am sure, has left that time with lessons and with knowing they want to follow your path and listen to you and remember every word you have spoken. I think of you as truly a blessing from this Universe. There is no question why and how you arrived in San Miguel. We needed you. I pray you feel recognized for your hard work, gifts, talents, intelligence, kindness and the WILL you have to make this a better world. Your soul is impeccable. My other mentors are folks that you have been a mentor to also. You have made a difference to so many.
just speaking from the heart
Grace
Grace, I am touched by your response. Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful reflections. I am blessed to know people, such as yourself, and for having the opportunity to assist those who trust and honor me to provide guidance and direction on their Hero/Heroine’s Journey. You also provide me with spiritual nurturance and gratitude because you are the one who is taking action and making a difference in your life. It’s truly a gift to witness. Blessings, Beverly
Comments are closed.