In the early 90s, Gatorade ran a TV ad with Michael Jordan that had the tag line “Be Like Mike.”

But today I want to tell you about a different Mike.

Mike is a retiree and recently visited a non-profit organization that helps youth struggling with addiction.

On his visit to the organization’s rehab facility, Mike met a young man, let’s call him Philip, who was responsible that day for giving new board members a tour.

Philip is a late teen who is spending his current days rehabilitating and recovering at the organization’s facility located in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by peace and nature.

The two of them got to talking while Philip showed Mike around.

“Philip, do you talk to your parents much?”

“No, Mike, not that much. Actually, it’s been a while.”

Mike paused while he considered what he’d just heard.

“Would you mind if I called them? To let them know how you’re doing.”

“Sure I guess.”

I’m guessing Philip didn’t really know what to think. But at the end of the tour, he gave Mike his parents’ contact info.

Fast forward and Mike has just had an hour long phone conversation with Philip’s mom and dad. Mike has even invited them to come to his place for dinner the next time they were over to see Philip… and the rest is history

It turns out they’re planning to come visit their son next month… and have accepted Mike’s offer as well.

How impactful do you think that phone call was for Philip’s parents?

A stranger, having just met their son, calling to reassure them that he is doing ok.

We could all stand for more people to be a little bit more like Mike.

Moments matter.