In his book, Attitude 101, John C. Maxwell said, “Treat every person as if he or she were the most important person in the world.” That’s an amazing skill— one I would love to possess. Full transparency: I’d struggle with that if there were only one other person left in the world with me.  

Have you ever been around a famous person in public? With people constantly vying for their attention, it seems nearly impossible for celebrities to dedicate their attention solely to one person. Even for those of us who aren’t public figures, giving undivided attention to the person right in front of us is no easy task.  

In a college town—especially one in the Southeastern Conference—there aren’t too many people more recognized than a university’s head baseball coach. I met Butch Thompson shortly after he was hired by Auburn University in 2015. We bumped into each other at a local breakfast joint, where I welcomed him to campus, and we shared a laugh over our Mississippi roots. It was a brief, lighthearted interaction, and then we went our separate ways.

I doubt he remembers that meeting, but ever since, he has always made me feel seen and appreciated. Each time our paths cross, he smiles, waves, and takes time to speak. At first, I assumed he had an incredible memory. Now, after nearly ten years of witnessing him interact with people around campus, I’ve realized that he makes everyone feel seen and appreciated.

I’ve never played baseball for— or with—Coach Thompson, but if he makes a random guy like me feel that way, I can only imagine how his players feel about his great leadership.

As a leader, helping people “feel needed, seen, and appreciated” is a rare talent, and one I find challenging. Watching players and fans respond to Coach Thompson’s coaching, mentorship, and discipleship is a blessing. I’ve been a recipient of his patience, kindness, and thoughtful presence in simple, everyday conversations. His willingness to publicly express and demonstrate his Christian faith and lead by example leaves a lasting impact.

I consider Coach Thompson a great example of a Sharper Leader—not just because of wins on the field, but by the way he treats people and lives his faith. His example inspires me to work harder at truly seeing people and showing appreciation more intentionally.