Happy New Year; welcome to 2022. I’ve had some wins in the last twelve months. I’ve read some great books, enjoyed meaningful conversations, witnessed life transformation, and learned greater agility than the previous year. 2022 appears to be a banner year as I look ahead. I’m boosted, ready for the 5th grandchild’s arrival, and a couple of big projects to initiate. I’ve spent several weeks reflecting on the new year in a personal year-end review. What do I want to do this new year differently? Here’s a short list I’ve been working on: Work deeply rather than broadly Measure by a meaningful ..read more

I believe in the gathered church – whether digital or analog. There is movement in the Biblical practice of Jesus’ followers gathering together. Lately, I’ve heard the comments both first and second hand, “I’m not coming back to church until I don’t have to wear a mask.” Personally, I struggle with this statement. We live in a locale that requires masking in public buildings. Why not wear them? The excuses given vary from personal choice to politics. Please hear my heart as a pastor. Don’t let a masking policy keep you from gathering in the local church. I wear a mask when I’m sitting or st ..read more

I had this thought the other day as I was listening to a podcast. Funny, the idea wasn’t in context with the talk. But, it was one of those reminder moments. Let me give you some background. By nature, I’m a people pleaser. I like for everyone to be happy and don’t like it when I think someone is upset or angry with me. This stems from my childhood and the shadow of seeking parental approval. I’m not alone here; many men and women in my line of work have a similar struggle. The battle is a constant tension about affirmation. Am I looking for approval from people, or am I living out of my appro ..read more

A rather harsh title, I know. I’ve been around long enough to see both the best and worst in people – the brightest of joys and the darkest of evils. People can be kind, mean well, but they’re only human. We’re all depraved. That includes me; this includes you. I believe the best in people; this hope is aspirational. At the same time, I don’t trust them. Maybe at one time, I did, but the scars won’t let me journey there again. This distrust may sound fatalistic, but it’s actually hopeful. Believe me, I still love people, care about their needs, hurts, and hopes. I enjoy deep, authentic, and m ..read more

The abortion conversation continues. Both Georgia and Alabama moved into the spotlight by creating proposals which limit medical procedures. I believe in the sanctity of life. I’m not mad or political. I choose not to march, make accusations or voice political banter. I decided to make a difference in my own small way. My unique life experiences shape my position. I think if you were to walk in my shoes, you’d feel the same way. Let me explain. I am the father of three children, two of whom are adopted. We were the answer for an unwed mother at her wit’s end trying to raise two toddlers. I app ..read more

This month was important to me. My intent these past 30 days with daily posts was to encourage you in your journey to a healthier you. Maybe you’ve already begun the journey or maybe your at the place of considering a change.  Did you know we had a Rec Center at Cool Spirng with incredible professional support and equipment? We have a phenomenal team of professionals at Cool Spring ready to help you make great strides in finding the healthier you.  If you’re wondering where to begin, let me make a suggestion to start with the Cool Spring Rec Center. You can’t beat the availablity, su ..read more

I have to admit, I get bored quickly. If I’m doing the same thing over and over again without a little variety, it gets old, and I lose interest. And, soon, I quit. I realize that about myself and use that knowledge to for my advantage. When it comes to health, whether it’s the way I eat or workout, I have to add variety in my routine to maintain the interest and engagement. I read the other day about a guy who eats the same thing for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. He’s a fitness guru and has maintained his fitness level for years. My first reaction to the article was, I c ..read more

You’ve got a lot to do, so does everyone else. There are many distractions throughout the day clamoring for our attention. We’re all busy. You don’t accomplish more by doing more; you achieve more with intentionality and time stewardship. You can only do so much, choose the things you must do and that just you can do and focus your attention there. Create boundaries to protect what matters most. One essential boundary for good health is good rest and sleep. I’m not going to try and convince you with research as to why you need sleep. Harvard Health does an excellent job as does the University ..read more

We all need a challenge. When we’re challenged, we are spurred to action. Healthy living doesn’t just happen. It is intentional. You establish a routine, and if lived out often, it soon becomes mundane or easy. When that happens, it’s time to move to the next level. You’ve accomplished much and now it’s time to achieve even more. I want to give you two words of advice regarding a personal challenge. First, learn to push yourself. Health is your decision; this is your future. No one is going to do it for you; it’s something you must do. There is going to be a moment where you feel like giving u ..read more

Perspective matters in health’s story. You start in an introduction and finish with a conclusion. There are many chapters between the two. Pay attention to the middle; this is where the story unfolds. Take one day at a time. You’re going to have great days and some not so great days. You’ll have some successful weeks and others that are less than successful. You keep moving forward. If you have a bad day, look to the next. Don’t ever give up. Learn from the fails and turn them into successes. Take one meal at a time. You’ll slip up. To tell you the truth, that’s expected. Nobody is perfect and ..read more