Happy Holidays???

If one more store clerk says “Happy Holidays” in a shaky voice as if I’m going to retaliate….I’m gonna….uhhmmm….I’m not really sure, but it is super frustrating!!! So, in search of political correctness, corporations have stressed to their employees the need to use religiously neutral phrasing. That’s unfortunate! Thanksgiving was where a bunch of folks got together and “Thanked GOD” for provision. Christmas was about Jesus Christ and his birth….and THAT’s IT! So, guys….how do we get rid of the Jesus stuff that’s clouding the whole “Spirit of Giving at Xmas”…well let’s just call it the “Holiday Season” for a while…and then people will except the phrasing. Maybe then people will actually stop saying CHRISTmas and say “Happy Holidays”???

Ok, I know I might be riding the issue out and for some…it is no issue at all. In fact, you’ve never even considered it. Or, you may be reading this and find yourself offended at the thought of Christ. I simply offer this story from my 4 year old little girl: I was walking out of my computer room when I saw my daughter coming down the stairs with tears in her eyes. I walked over to her and knelt down with my arm around her. I said, “Sweetheart, what’s wrong”? Daddy, I don’t care about the presents under the tree and stuff. I don’t wan’t anything for Christmas except Jesus in my heart…..

What? My mind was blown! I asked her to explain herself and she said, “it’s just sad that we think about other stuff instead of Jesus–He’s all that really matters”….

So, this Christmas I’m thankful for Jesus Christ and his “Virgin Birth”…I’m thankful for the “LIFE” I’ve found in Jesus…I’m thankful for my family and my deep-insighful 4 year old daughter….stuff–not so much!!!

What is Christmas to you?  What are you thankful for?  And what do you think about “HOLIDAY LINGUISTICS”?  Oh Yeah, and if you don’t know about life in Jesus Christ….that’s the whole reason He was born–check it out!!!

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Christmas, Gifts, Giving, Happy Holidays, Jesus Christ, Political Correctness, Thanksgiving, Virgin Birth

What Is Stressing You Out?

Just a simple question.  I know that some individuals are wired to deal with stress more efficiently than others and certain types of stress can effect people differently.  For example:  one may find a child stressful while another could handle five children without any issues;  or one might find “public speaking” to a group of ten to be frightful, while another seems to effortlessly communicate to thousands.  The bottom line is we are all made differently and have unique abilities to excel in certain areas.  So, the question is….besides our “economic issues”….What Is Stressing You Out?

I know that my mind is completely consumed by the church plant we are gearing up for (www.celebrationphilly.org).  All of the unknowns of helping to “birth God’s church” reminds me of the unknowns of watching Kim have our children.  It is definitely an emotional roller coaster.  Some things you feel totally ready for and others….well, let’s just say….you’re not so much.  I am interested though, in the way we react to “stressful” things.  Or, a better question might be…. “why are we stressed about certain things?”  If we could really just rest in the fact that “this stuff” is so much bigger than we are.  I mean really…are we supposed to accomplish more than we were made to accomplish?  I think not!!!  So, just take it for what it is.

I do want to challenge all of us to accomplish more than what we “can handle” on our own.  Be a part of something bigger than you!  I firmly believe that this principle helps us to live through the more “stressful” times and rest in the fact that it is NOT ABOUT US.  It also places extreme importance on relationship.  I feel that when we are connected to the right people our stress load is lightened.  It is the way God intended it to be.  We are not meant to “do life” alone.  So, what is stressing you out?  Is it worth stressing over?  Is it even something you can change?  And a more personal question….who are you connected to and are they the right ones?  Let me know your thoughts!

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Church, Economy, Relationships, Stress

I Like Eggnog!

Child-Like Simplicity

I was thinking of something “profound” to Blog about this weekend and I begin pondering the “simple things” while looking through some family photos. When all of the “chaff” burned away I was left with a few simple thoughts. I’m in love with Jesus Christ! I’m in love with my wife, Kimberly Denise and my kids, Moriah & Hudson. I love my family & friends! And….I LIKE EGGNOG!!!

I can honestly say that I’m over all of the hype of stuff. Sure, I like things but there are so many things that scream for our attention that just aren’t that important.  I’ve watched as “things” have been meticulously removed from my life…..almost like a surgeon keeps opening me up to re-clean the infected areas (or selfish areas if you will).  It seems as if I have been left with the essentials….ok, and the EGGNOG!  I just want to “cut all of the drama” out of my life and just be “see through”–relevant and real for all to observe freely.  I know I can use some “de-cluttering” in my world…how about you?

In such a busy season that we’re becoming consumed in…what are the things that matter most to you?  And what are the things that get in your way the most?  Share your thoughts & share your EGGNOG!!!!!

Filed under: Inspiration via Picture, Uncategorized , Consumed, Eggnog, Jesus Christ, Real, Relevant, Simplicity

Tiger Did What!!!

How sad is it that we are so consumed with the “Tiger Saga”.  Yes, it’s sad that Tiger Woods made these mistakes, but are we as equally saddened by the other men that make the same mistake?  Statistics say that over 50% of married men have or will cheat.  This is a great opportunity to remind ourselves that we are all human and we are all subject to the same temptations and opportunities to fail.  Don’t get me wrong!  I’m not “down-playing” this story or taking up for Mr. Woods.  I was enthusiastically  watching football when I shouted “TIGER DID WHAT”!

I really want to focus on society’s pressures to “get the scoop” or “tell all” and ask this question:  Why are we, as a culture, so “in love” with celebrities?  Is it the fame and money, because that’s the only thing they have that everyone else does not have!  Why was Tiger Woods not satisfied with his life and achievements…or was he and he just messed up.  I mean, seriously….how long do you have to look at the life of a celebrity to realize that it’s not that great all the time.  They seemingly have everything a person could ask for, yet their lives are battered and torn apart (some by golf clubs).  The “life of fame” is often accompanied by relational tragedy.  You’ve heard it said that “it’s lonely at the top”….can you imagine how hard it is to have someone to talk to when you’re Tiger Woods?  For that matter….as Americans, we’re pretty brutal when it comes to allowing others to open up without judgement.  We are all guilty as mess….when it comes to making BIG and small mistakes…yet we “rail on others” when they mess up.  And what’s so SICK about it is we want to be the first to “know what really happened”.  Some of us even run out and purchase retard magazines that makes millions talking about the intimate details of others.

Anyways, that enough!  But, please……Let me know your thoughts!  What is the real issue here with American Culture and how de we solve it? Also, what really brings you happiness?

Filed under: Uncategorized , American Culture, Cheating, Fame, Money, Tiger Woods, True Happiness

10 Years From Now….I Will Be…

Yes, it’s that time of year again. A year….a decade, is coming to an end and a new one is beginning.  What happened this year that will change your life forever?  What did you accomplish?What did you fail to accomplish that you were striving for?  In just a few weeks our thoughts and days will be cluttered with the hustle and bustle known as Christmas. Our schedules will be full of the parties and shopping and acting like we have more money than we do to please people that really only want our time and affection (rabbit trail–sorry . We’ll talk about how the year has flown by and how they seem to go faster and faster. Then at some point we’ll have “it”. You know, that moment when you’re all alone at night….or, maybe when you see an old friend that’s “achieved more” than you–yeah….thats “it”.

At that “it” moment we find ourselves wondering “what if” and “why me”….you know all of those questions about the past that seemingly “can’t change a thing”. Well, I want to propose that it is IMPERATIVE for us to ask those questions. We need to contemplate the things that have kept us from achieving our goals in order to learn from them and move forward. So, go ahead and dream by filling in this statement: 10 Years From Now….I Will Be…

Leave a comment and let me know what you’re dreaming about (unless it’s top secret

This is what I’m dreaming about:  http:celebrationphilly.org

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Christmas, Dreams, Plans, Scheduling, Self-Evaluation

Passionate About Nothing!

Do you ever stop your daily routine long enough to evaluate your “life-progress”.  You know, are the tasks you’re spending daily energy on, fulfilling your purpose?  I find myself drifting from my purpose often.  So, how do you stay focused on the goal?  I find that I give my time and energy to the things that I’m passionate about.  In saying that, it can be very easy to be passionate about too many things and end up being Passionate About Nothing!

As a follower of Christ, there are certain things I should be passionate about.  As a parent, there are other subjects that should hold my attention.  As an individual there are still other topics that move me to an action.  So, how do I distinguish between all of the various topics competing for my time and energy?  I believe that we are all equipped with the ability to entertain a certain number  of “passion points”.  Some of us can juggle many, while others of us may be tapped out with three.  So, the key to staying focused is to find that “thing your most passionate about”.

As a Christian parent, I might be concerned with the fact that there are schools making it a requirement for 3rd graders to read about “gay penguins”.  So, am I passionate enough about this area to make a difference?  What about the state of the economy and the fact that our government is doing a horrific job at budgeting and planning!  Do I care enough to say something to the right person?  Or, would anything I say even matter?

Somewhere along the way it seems as if we have lost confidence in our ability to make a difference.  We have allowed ourselves to be “lulled to sleep” by the enormity of issues that exist in the world.  I’m saying–WAKE UP!!!  You can make a difference.  God has gifted each of us with ability to “Be a Ten” in some area.  There is a “Passion Point” out there that needs your attention.  So, what is it?  Tell me what you’re passionate about….my hope is that we are passionately focused on the “right things”…what are the “right things?

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Budget, Christianity, Economy, Focus, Gay Penguins, Life Goals, Parents, Passion, Public schools, Purpose

No More Cookies…….WHAT?

Ok…random rant! Anyone that has small children (under the age of 5) should understand this…unless you’re a perfect parent with no issues. Anyway, we were quietly doing our shopping in Walmart the other day when my cute little 2 yr. old son said, “Dadaa, can I have cookie please”. I said, “wait for mommy and we’ll get one”. So, we link up with “mommy” and head towards the bakery. Kim walks with Hudson towards the elderly lady with the plastic wrap around her head…you know the one that always gives out cookies. I happened to venture to the left to admire some shiny avocados, when the normal Walmart white-noise was shattered with the screaming of my son. I dropped the shiny green things and headed towards the screaming child, which happened to be mine. I frantically asked Kim… “what’s wrong”. She responded…”they’re no longer giving the kids a free cookie…”. No More Cookies….WHAT?

Are you kidding me right now? Walmart (at least the one super-center we frequent) has made a decision to stop giving the kids a free cookie—the ONE THING that helped our shopping trips stay “somewhat normal” or at least tolerable for me. And now….it’s been TAKEN FROM ME!!!! Ok, I know it’s not horrific, but work with me here. In my opinion, this is a “hasty, non-thought out” decision” made to combat the effects of our economic state….right? Ok, maybe not, but let’s look at that for a minute.

The fact that our Walmart stopped handing my children a cookie and a smile…will force me to do my grocery shopping at PUBLIX. So, in order to save a few cents…ok, even if my kids consumed 40 cookies a year…what does that cost them…like $2 (or let’s exaggerate…. $20)….they’ve managed to LOSE approximately $4,000 in grocery business for the year from me. What do you think? Is that a wise decision?

Showing people that their business is important and appreciated can go a long ways! We will, knowingly or unknowingly, provide a case for others to see whether or not we genuinely put their needs at the top of our List. It’s those pesky little, miniscule tasks, like placing a few extra cookies in the hands of children, that will ultimately make the difference.

Walmart….I’m not impressed!  So, How Can We Do Better At Making Others Have An Amazing Day?

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Appreciation, Cookies, Cut Backs, Economy, groceries, Kids, Leadership, Parenthood, Walmart

Extremism…?

My fingers can keep silent no longer!  I am finding myself troubled to no end with “political correctness”.  Unfortunately we have terrible events like the Ft. Hood incident to remind us how evil and corrupt the world really is.  May the One True God of peace and comfort be with the families involved.  What’s bothering me so badly is how we deal with Truth.  We’ve lied ourselves into believing that if something is too difficult to comprehend with our “World View” that we have to come up with a new title or a scenario to “make it ok” and somehow fit everything into a package we can some how accept.  The core issue is “absolute truth” and whether or not one will yield to its existence.  THERE IS ABSOLUTE TRUTH….just to clear up my thoughts if need be.  One must understand that we were all created to “believe” in something…you know the “faith” element.  Where the “political correctness issue” arises is when the faith element “goes too far” in one’s opinion.  It’s at that point, that we try to stick a label like “EXTREMISM“, over the surface of the “truth of the real issue”.

So, CNN, CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX and everyone else…must we add words to “Truth” so that we may more easily deal with the difficulties–the reality of the World we live in?  Have we really convinced ourselves that “votes” and “money” are more important than “Truth”?  And for all of the “relative truther’s” …just stop–”relative truth” as a statement or belief negates itself at its purest form.  Gravity is “Truth” and it is “relative” to NO one!  Even if you choose to deny it by shooting yourself off to space and putting on a special suit….it STILL EXIST!  Anyway, that’s another Blog Post.  The simple point is…i’m tired of hearing the phrase “Muslim Extremist”.  The “Truth” is that the Muslim religion is the Muslim religion….there are no variances.  The Muslim faith is EXTREME….and so is Christianity for that matter!  Christianity just happens to be based on absolute Truth.

Instead of debating religion…which I enjoy, but see no need to address here.  I write for one purpose.  Instead of worrying about whether or not the man who pulled the trigger in Ft. Hood is an “extremist”…..he killed in the name of “allah” (stress the lower case)….it’s horrible…just like a man who would run over his daughter in a vehicle because she converted to Christianity. We live in a “sinful world”…so the important thing is HOW WE CAN COMBAT IT…not how we can label the “propagators”.

So, one purpose that eternally has my heart is human trafficking.  It’s time to STOP IT!!!  I just want to mention a Christ Follower (extremist if you must for political reasons), Christine Caine, that is making a difference.  Check out the “EXTREMISM” that matters at http://thea21campaign.org and help stop human trafficking!!!

EXTREMISIM….hhmmmm…not so much…I prefer “REALity”…any thoughts?

Filed under: Random Thoughts , A21, Absolute Truth, Christianity, Christine Caine, CNN, Extremism, Fox News, Ft. Hood, God, Honor Killing, Human Trafficking, Muslim, Muslim Extremism, Political Correctness, Reality, World View

Being Myself

There are so many “measuring sticks” in our society.  Our intense focus on being connected digitally has opened us up to even more “social benchmarking”.  It is more than easy to find yourself overwhelmed with the inability to keep up with everyone who is anyone.  So, how do we stay focused on our purpose?  Well, first of all we must accept the fact that we are not meant to measure ourselves by others!  I’m fully aware that it can be healthy to analyze our achievements in light of what’s going on with others, but at the same time it can be extremely unhealthy.  ”Swallow the thought” that you are NOT meant to compete with others, but you were created to “struggle against yourself”.  God made me exactly like He wanted me and His goal for me can simply be found in “BEING MYSELF”.

It seems that we can suck the energy out of ourselves by staying in a “competition mindset” too long and comparing ourselves to individuals we have no business comparing ourselves to. I’m just saying….be comfortable with who God made you to be!!!  ARE YOU OK WITH YOURSELF?  Yeah, we can always make ourselves better, but do you spend too much time trying to change the “uniqueness” people refer to as “YOU”?  Just a thought….how much time do you spend worrying about “you-isms” that don’t necessarily need to change?  Be Yourself…and learn to be happy with you!!!  Love ya’ll

Filed under: Uncategorized , Being Yourself, Competition, Digital Lifestyle, God's Creation, Inner Struggle, Measuring Sticks, Self Esteem, Social Benchmarking, Society

The Vision Snatchers!

Are you kidding me right now? I’m finding so many people that have given up on dreaming. While there will always be overly optimistic people with a scattered chance of extreme pessimism, I think there needs to be a resurgence of dreaming. It might not be as easy to dream during challenging times, but that is exactly where dreams become reality. Amidst days, weeks, months and years of uncertainty our dreams need to be paramount–especially the ones that are “seeded” by God himself. We need to stand up and take back our ideas and dreams from the “Vision Snatchers”!!!

Just like Paul instructed Timothy: “stir up the gift”…or “fan into flame” that which was placed inside of you. I believe that resting inside of each person lies a special dream, vision and/or gifting deposited there by Creator God. The one thing that can keep you from realizing your potential is doubt & negativity (ok, that’s 2 things….but there are probably many things so just work with me . Yes, deposits need to sit for a bit before withdrawing them, but many times we get so consumed with others that we forget about the “good things” God has for us. And the kicker is God is asking you to take something out based on who HE is…not on who you’re trying to be. Doubt & negativity will cause you to focus on your inability and forget about God’s supernatural ability. We will never accomplish difficult dreams or tasks on our own and if we surround ourselves with negative people….well, there’s really no hope outside of changing your “group of friends” or influencers.

Don’t be held back by the Vision Snatchers and remember that everyone around you can’t be trusted with the dreams God has deposited in your life. So, what are you dreaming about? You are dreaming…..right?

Filed under: Random Thoughts , Doubt, Dreams, Friends, God's Will, Negativity, Optimism, Pessimism, Vision