John C. Maxwell - Wisdom from Women in the Bible: Giants of the Faith Speak into Our Lives

In 2010 I got the opportunity to speak at Joyce Meyers Love Life Womens Conference. Joyce and I are good friends, and Ive often appeared on her television show. On this day I chose to talk about how to live a fulfilling life, and about the importance of attitude. When I got up to speak, I told the audience that for ten years I had spoken to men at Promise Keepers events, but that I was glad that God had finally given me a greater audience to speak to. The whole place went nuts, and we had a wonderful time that day.

When I finished speaking, I couldnt help thinking about my mother, Laura, whom Id lost the year before. No person has had a greater impact on my life. Mom taught me true love and modeled God to me every day. It didnt matter if I was dealing with a scraped knee, a bruised ego, or a broken heart: she was always there to give a hug, share a tear, and provide a listening ear. I learned love and respect from her. I cannot put into words what I gained from her wisdom and her unconditional love. Every day I miss her. But I take comfort in knowing that she lived a full life for eighty-eight years, and that she is now with the one she loves most: Jesus.

My appreciation for Mom got me thinking about all the influential women who have shaped who I am, taught me spiritual lessons, modeled leadership, and made my life meaningful. It all started with Grandma Minton, who interceded for me when I was a very young child. I can tell you, I was a very ornery child, so I really needed people to talk to God on my behalf. I believe she almost single-handedly prayed me into the Kingdom.

And then there was Miss Tacey, my fourth-grade teacher. I deserved a permanent spot in the cloakroom for the way I acted in class, but instead she gave me a permanent spot in her heart. She used to write me encouraging notes. Even today she still writes to me. When I publish a new book, she writes me a note to tell me how much she likes it. Recently she wrote one that said, I had no idea you would turn out this way. Neither did I.

My sister-in-law Anita has also been a great influence. She, my brother Larry, my wife, Margaret, and I have traveled the world together. Anita has always been sunshine to my soul. Her beautiful spirit shines on every person she meets and lights up every situation she encounters.

I spent a lot of time with my younger sister Trish. She was called Patty back when we were kids. She loved to tag along with my brother Larry and me. Believe it or not, when I needed to buy my first car after I graduated from college, she was the one who lent me the money for the down payment. Trish and her husband, Steve, have two beautiful daughters. When Rachael was young, I called her Angel because of the angelic expression she always had. I called Jennifer Sweet Pea, which she loved.