I grew up in a special place surrounded by men who were larger than life to me.

They were successful in their chosen careers yet humble, confident but not arrogant, leaders but also servants.

They were great storytellers who possessed a keen sense of humor.

They seemed to know everyone and everyone seemed to know them.

They never tired of helping others.

They were problem solvers who knew how to keep things in perspective.

They were the ones people went to with their problems and challenges.

Their very presence calmed the anxious, strengthened the weak, and bolstered the doubting.

And I thought they would be around forever.

Now, most of them are gone.

And the ones still here are old and frail.

What do you do when your heroes get old?

You accept the truth with gratitude.

While I saw them as “larger than life,” the truth is that they are affected by life just as I am, including aging and dying.

I lament that they are gone, but I am so grateful that they were here.

Because while they were here, they taught me important life lessons.

While they were here, they challenged me to be better.

While they were here, they equipped me with the skills to live a meaningful life.

While they were here, they modeled how to live a life of service.

While they were here, they made me feel important.

And while they were here, they helped me believe in myself.

I am grateful for their contributions.

I am grateful for the time I had with them.

I am grateful for how they pointed me and others to Jesus.

What do you do when your heroes get old?

You focus on what you gained from them rather than on what has been lost.

And you thank God for them.