The Importance and Impact of Mentors
I recently attended a lecture given by one of the world’s best card magicians. In magic, lectures typically involve an expert magician performing tricks, explaining their methods, and demonstrating the necessary techniques. This lecture, however, focused on the profound influence of a great mentor on the magician’s career. The card magician shared stories of his mentor, who guided him from a young boy shining shoes to support his family, to a successful performer entertaining at corporate events worldwide. Without his mentor’s years of teaching and critiquing, the magician acknowledged that he wouldn’t have achieved his success.
In our own careers, having good mentors is crucial. They provide guidance, teach us essential skills beyond our formal education, and help shape our personal and professional growth. I have been fortunate to have mentors who taught me not just how to do my job, but also how to lead, treat others with respect, and strive for excellence. These are lessons that cannot be learned from books or seminars but require daily practice and mentorship over many years.
In magic, I have two mentors. One helps me improve as a magician and performer, while the other guides me in running my business. Both hold me accountable and push me towards excellence. For those of us who are more advanced in our careers, it’s important to ask ourselves: Are we willing to mentor younger professionals? Who have been our mentors, and how have they shaped our lives? Have we acknowledged their impact?
From the Desk of Ron
Thank you to everyone who has supported my magic performances this year. It’s been wonderful to get back out after being shut in for so long due to COVID, sharing my love of magic with all of you. I’m currently developing a new show for libraries called “All Together Now – the Magic of Kindness, Friendship, and Unity.” This aligns with their 2023 summer reading theme, but I’m happy to bring this show to other venues as well.
As mentioned in my article this month, I have been fortunate to work with two mentors who are well-regarded in magic circles. Patty and I recently enjoyed a relaxing trip to Siesta Key Beach, reading and unwinding. Despite Hurricane Ian passing through shortly before our visit, the area was thankfully spared significant damage. I’m grateful for my health, family, and the many blessings of this year, and I look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with my loved ones.
Book Your Holiday Magic Show Now
The holiday season is approaching quickly! Don’t miss the chance to add some magic to your holiday event. Whether it’s a company party, children’s Christmas party, or a large family gathering, my magic show provides fun, wholesome entertainment for all.
Client of the Month: Utica Church of Christ
The Utica Church of Christ recently hosted a community Fall Festival. The event was a huge success, with families enjoying hot dogs, popcorn, face painting, free pumpkins for the kids, inflatables, a unique homemade barrel train, and of course, my magic show. It was a wonderful way to bring the community together in Utica, Ohio, and I was honored to be a part of it.
Family Spotlight: My Wife Patty
Patty and I have been married for 38 years, having met in junior high and shared time in high school band before dating in college. We both studied mechanical engineering at Ohio State University. Patty now works in energy engineering, helping clients reduce energy consumption and save money. She’s also an avid reader and runner, having participated in several half-marathons. Patty has always been supportive of my passion for magic, even tolerating the many decks of cards, magic props, and books scattered throughout our house. She’s also my number one critic and fan, always giving honest feedback on my new magic effects.