I love reading books and blogs. Tons of great information is available at my fingertips. I can find good resources on leadership, communication, ministry and anything else I’m interested with just a few iPad swipes. I appreciate the convenience but the modern amenities pale in comparison to gaining insight in real time from a real person.

I was reminded of this when I met Walde.

Last week Waldemar Leonhardt came to the church where I had begun a preaching series. Walde never really said much. He mostly smiled and said he appreciated what I was sharing. I never thought to ask Walde if he had anything to share with me, until he invited me over for lunch.

For hours I talked with Walde about growing up in Nazi Germany, life as a baker, his family, and why he decided to become a Christian. I thought to myself that his experience would make a good book. Little did I know that he had already written one called The War Within. 

During the end of our time together I asked Walde if he could go back in time and talk to his 30 year old self what would he say? He said he would tell himself that life would be much easier if he wasn’t so selfish. 

Note taken.

Who’s your Walde?

Glance around your office, church, or neighborhood. Who are you missing out on? Who’s nearby with a few lessons to share? A person you’ve never really paid attention to can have an incredible story, profound insight, or a few words of advice that could change your life.

When you talk them be sure to take notes.