Ignite the Mentoring "FLAME"

Who do we mentor?
Usually, we come across people who are interested in our lives or experiences.  We meet up, and there is a desire to learn more from the more experienced party.  We either set up an informal meeting to follow up or join a formal program to learn.  We use technologies and social media to link up and share resources, knowledge, and wisdom in this time and age.  What is important is that we share an interest in each other's lives.  In applying to the art of parenting, we show interest in our kids' new stage of development and their friends'.

What does mentoring look like?
I like the imagery of a flame.  The FLAME represents passion, interest, hope, and motivation in us.  If we ignite the FLAME in each other, I think it already achieves the goal of mentoring.  The acronym of FLAME represents:

Focusing on individual development and not just performance
Listening as a sounding board and not hurry to achieve tasks
Affirming the learning process and not obsess about the product
Mutual respect, admiration, and choices 
Expanding perspectives and exploring potentials

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