Darryl Alder was one of my earliest mentors.

As my first Boy Scout Leader when I was 11, Darryl taught me the values of service, kindness, and leadership via the Boy Scout Law, Oath & Promise, and the overall scouting experience.

And he helped me to believe in myself.

Darryl moved not long after my time as a young scout, his career as a professional Scouter taking him away from our little town of Richfield.

A phone call from Darryl a few years later brought him back into my life for a long weekend. We were planning on doing some winter prep work at Beaver High Adventure Base, a scout camp Darryl had responsibility for. However, a big snowstorm kept us off the mountain. So we headed up to Darryl’s house where I spent the weekend with him and his wife Sue.

During that time, we talked like we used to. I remember Darryl sharing stories about some of his own struggles and reminding me of the values I learned as a Boy Scout. That weekend became a pivotal moment that rekindled a little more confidence in myself and a little more clarity about life.

That call from Darryl, I discovered 30 years later, was prompted by my dad who was worried about his son. The teenage years were rough for dad and me. Darryl was one of a handful who Dad reached out on my behalf.

I hadn’t talked to Darryl since that time until we reconnected about 7 years ago when we found each other on Facebook. Professionally retired now, Darryl continues to find ways to be a mentor.

One of those ways is portraying St. Nicholas, a story he shared via video this week with our Red Edge Christmas Breakfast–Stories and Scones.

Click here to watch his 10 minute story of St. Nicholas!

St. Nicholas’ legacy of giving and uplifting others became a model for Darryl, not only during the holidays but throughout his life. His portrayal of St. Nicholas reflects his mentoring style–a blend of kindness, generosity, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, especially children. finds great joy in mentoring others, particularly children, and being a “St. Nicholas” figure has enriched his life as much as it has blessed those he serves.

Reflecting on my own journey, I see how Darryl’s example influenced my path. He didn’t just teach skills or lead activities–he invested in people, showing us what it means to live a life of intentional kindness and purpose. That’s the essence of mentorship: seeing the potential in others and helping them realize it.

As Darryl shared in his video, the tradition of St. Nicholas emphasizes not just gift-giving but fostering good behavior and selflessness. These principles align perfectly with what he modeled as a Scout Leader and what I strive to embody as an Intentional Leader. The holiday season serves as a reminder to live these values not just in December but all year long.

The Christmas season grants us each a simple opportunity to find ways to be a “St. Nicholas” in someone’s life. It might be through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or taking the time to mentor a young person, much like Darryl did for me.

These acts of generosity ripple outward, creating lasting change not only for the recipient but also for the giver. might be through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a moment of guidance that lights the way for someone else. These acts of generosity ripple outward, creating lasting change not only for the recipient but also for the giver.

This week, I invite you to reflect on the mentors who have shaped you and consider how you can be that mentor for someone else. Whether it’s with your family, your team, or someone in need, let’s embody the spirit of kindness and mentorship that St. Nicholas exemplified. You never know how far your influence can reach.

INTENTIONAL LEADERSHIP 13 MINUTE ACTION

Take 13 minutes today to reflect on who has been a St. Nicholas in your life and how can you pass that legacy forward.

❤️❤️❤️

I love you, friend! Merry Christmas!

Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.

Les

RED EDGE MENTORING – VISION | STRATEGY | PROMISE

EMPOWERING LEADERS TO CREATE AND LIVE A MORE INTENTIONAL LIFE

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