By Bonnie Culverhouse
Around 12 high school seniors with Leadership Webster came away from the noon meeting of the Minden Lions Club Thursday with life lessons from those who have lived them.
Lion President Tracy Campbell moderated a forum where the teens spoke with a panel that included Lions Club members Paul Kitchens, senior attorney and partner at Kitchens Law; Robbie Hayden, patrol captain for the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office; Dr. Ray Spurlock with Ray Spurlock Optometry; Tommy Davis, retired businessman and former Minden mayor; Col. Carleton Prothro, retired educator and U.S. Army aviator; and Reed McLendon, agent with Louisiana Farm Bureau Insurance.
Students asked the panel about career risks and advice they wish they had known before they ventured into the world.
Several advised the students, regardless of whether they attend college or work to become a skilled laborer, to listen to their hearts.
“If it’s some place you don’t think you need to be, don’t be afraid to fail or change your course,” McLendon said. “Do your due diligence. If there’s something that interests you, identify someone who has that job or skill set and spend time with them.”
Have a good work ethic and try waiting tables while in school, some of the Lions said.
“You learn a lot about people and how to deal with them, when you wait tables,” Fred Cabaniss said.
“No matter what your career is, it’s important that you learn how to work,” said Tommy Davis.
Students were also advised to set goals and work toward them.
“Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone,” Campbell told the students. “Never forget where you came from.”
