A day after I reflected upon and posted my thoughts about the loss of my friend Charles Herbert (see previous post), I discovered, a bit late, I lost a mentor. A man who had more professional-soul influence on me than any other.
I am sad for the loss.
His name? Dr. William (Bill) Phillips.
In the 90’s, I served two and half years along side Dr. Phillips at Yellowstone Baptist College in Billings, MT. Dr. Phillips was president for many years. At the time I was cutting my teeth on anything higher education.
Relating. This is how he grew me. His real-time relationship and interplay with the Trinity (Father, Son, Spirit) pressed through and into me and others. In short, he was a godly man…period.
Sure, he was educated. Multiple degrees. He was a true Greek Geek. He was cultured. And all of that played well in his service roles.
But he had no problem putting out the trash. He did. I saw him. Super down-to-earth man.
Listening. Bill listened to people. Recently, I heard a challenge within this question: ‘So, who is the most important person in your life?’
Yes, we all would answer well, but the proposed answer and perspective was “The person who is right in front of you…right now.”
That is how Dr. Phillips related to all people. When I was in front of him, it was as if I was the most important person in his life. He meant it, otherwise, I would have seen through him. Of course, he treated others the same way.
Remember my takeaway in my previous blog post about Dr. Charles? If not, I said: “Live life like a eulogy.” Dr. Phillips did just that. Both were stellar. All the way to the finish line.
Now for Dr. Phillips, my catch phrase “Press On” takes on a whole new meaning.
…further up and further in…he now goes.
See you soon.
Press on…