Last month, Jim Rohn passed away and the business world lost one of its most influential thinkers and speakers. Rohn was often referred to as "America's Foremost Business Philosopher" and his own story only helped fuel that perspective.

Born on an Idaho farm to a family with a strong work ethic, Rohn became a millionaire by the time he was 31 years old. During his life, he shared his wisdom on business and life with more than 5 million people at live presentations and countless others through his books, CDs, and DVDs.

To help put his passing in perspective, we turned to Darren Hardy, who is a protégé of Rohn and is the publisher and editorial director of SUCCESS magazine.

"The Passing of a Legend"

By Darren Hardy

"The most influential man in my life, second only to my biological father, died last month when my mentor, my philosophical father, Mr. Jim Rohn passed away.

Jim cemented my philosophical foundation and nourished my mind with ideas and ambitions never before imagined. Jim chiseled my character seminar by seminar, tape by tape, book by book, then CD by CD, hour by hour.

Jim emboldened my belief, in me and in my most daring dreams. When I fell and was bloodied, Jim was there with encouraging words to help me get back up. When I didn't think I could go on, Jim convinced me I was stronger than I imagined. When I wanted a short cut, Jim reminded me there aren't any. Even when I got too caught up in trying to achieve and succeed, Jim compelled me to leave room to live, to laugh and to love.

I know I am not the only one who lost a friend, teacher or mentor today. Jim Rohn positively influenced the lives of millions of people all over the world.

There is some good news to this, for you. I spent well over a 1,000 hours with Jim. 99% of that time was with him instructing me via his books, CDs or DVDs. The same material, the same relationship I had with Jim is available to everyone, right now and forever more–in the work he has left behind.

The good news is that Jim's legacy and his mentorship lives on and is eternally available to you and to millions more."

You can view a special tribute video and share your thoughts about Jim Rohn on his Memorial page at http://tribute.jimrohn.com/

Darren Hardy is a successful entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience leading several business ventures, including two television networks: The People's Network (TPN) and The Success Training Network (TSTN). He is also the publisher and editorial director of SUCCESS magazine. To learn more about his teachings and philosophy, visit http://darrenhardy.success.com.