Foreword<br > In the context of the life and the annals of individual<br >history， there are circumstances， events， and fi-iendships that<br >mark milestones along each way. Circumstances and events<br >leave their impact for good or bad， cause change in direction<br >and character， and are unforgettable. People make<br >impressions that are indelible. They inspire and motivate， or<br >demean and diminish one s own desires and ambitions.<br > When a person comes along whose example others are<br >encouraged to emulate， one who attempts to do greater things<br >than were ever dreamed or imagined， that person is a leader.<br >Some people simply happen to influence， leaders determine<br >to influence.<br > When J. Doug Stringer first made his appearance in<br > my life and in our ministry， he came seeking to accomplish<br > something never tried before and believing he could do it. I<br > realized that here was an unusual man--but I regarded time<br > as the real proof of his ability. Time， like light， makes things<br > manifest. Given enough time， the real character of a man<br > will become known through his thoughts， words， and actions.<br > Time proves men. "Fame can come in a moment， but<br > greatness comes ~4th longevity." Time proved Doug to me<br > personally. Not only did he accomplish that which he set out<br > to do with our ministry， but he also achieved greater things<br > than imagined a~s his vision grew and his ministry multiplied.<br >