Contributed by J. Douglas (Doug) Holladay, the founder and CEO of PathNorth, a former White House advisor, and a professor at Georgetown University. Doug is also the author of Rethinking Success: Eight Essential Practices for Finding Meaning in Work and Life.

Years ago, my close friend Steve Case, cofounder of AOL, and I flew down to Asheville, North Carolina, for a private visit with Billy Graham. Graham’s health had been failing, and Steve wanted to spend as much time with this remarkable figure and friend as possible. Graham’s influence in the world was beyond measure. He had spoken to more people
than anyone in history!

When we arrive, we found Graham fragile, relying on a walker. Although he was obviously quite frail, I was impressed by his endurance and lucidity. We spoke for hours. He graciously allowed me to ask question after question, ranging from Graham’s relationship with JFK and the Mormon hotel magnate Willard Marriott to his view of Muslims and their spiritual destiny.