tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86966557016987957932024-03-14T01:51:20.467-04:00my realitythis is how I see it...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.comBlogger341125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-66353777785568504572013-06-08T22:00:00.001-04:002013-06-08T22:00:52.017-04:00Biggest fanToday was the girls dance recital. We had a blast. There is a lot of work that goes into a 2 minute routine. <div><br></div><div>We sit for hours to watch our little darlings perform. This afternoon when Hannah was done, we told her Rae was next and she lit up with excitement. Hannah is Raegans biggest fan and vice versa. </div><div><br></div><div>I love seeing these girls cheer each other on. When Rae took the stage, Hannah was yelling her name to show support. When the dance was over, Hannah asked if she could give Rae the flowers. That made my heart melt. </div><div><br></div><div>Hannah knew how good it felt to receive flowers after the performance and she wanted to bring that joy to her sister. (Of course we let Hannah give Rae the flowers with the disclaimer that daddy bought them - just kidding, chill out). </div><div><br></div><div>My point: we all need someone cheering us on. No matter what we are doing or attempting, it makes us feel a lot better if we have someone believing in us and making sure we know it. </div><div><br></div><div>Who do you believe in & how do you show it. Who believes in you & how do they show it?</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--GmMIZyu_oc/UbPhsbcg5-I/AAAAAAAADXU/gXfzZdjfeTM/s640/blogger-image--693738078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--GmMIZyu_oc/UbPhsbcg5-I/AAAAAAAADXU/gXfzZdjfeTM/s640/blogger-image--693738078.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-8670495758288804732013-06-02T20:43:00.001-04:002013-06-02T20:43:28.074-04:00PACE<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wFUwEcNbmRc/UavmoKkxepI/AAAAAAAADW0/XebFZOSReXE/s640/blogger-image--1756570993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wFUwEcNbmRc/UavmoKkxepI/AAAAAAAADW0/XebFZOSReXE/s640/blogger-image--1756570993.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tonight at C3s leadership meeting we revealed a model called PACE. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">PACE is an acronym for: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Prayer </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Accountability</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Confession</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Encouragement</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We want to try our best to make sure people have a few others they get together with on a regular basis and PACE. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This isn't something we are going to be able to create, but we can create environments for this to naturally happen. We will make every environment an opportunity to meet others and introduce people to others. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If we can help everyone find 3 or so friends, they will stick around long enough to allow God to do something in their life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My point: everyone grows at their own PACE. Everyone does life at their own PACE. If we allow someone to hold us accountable by asking us the tough questions and then be brutally honest enough to answer without fear - imagine what could happen. Then if the other person was encouraging u by reminding u who u are and helping u replace lies with Truth then finishing up by praying - WOW. That is a formula for spiritual growth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">PACE will result in better relationships with ur family, spouse, kids, coworkers & friends. It will help u grow and make better decisions. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We are very excited about this. We know it may be difficult to implement but we know it'll be worth it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Who are u doing PACE with???</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-77264833015996684242013-06-01T22:13:00.001-04:002013-06-01T22:13:45.109-04:00UP<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GGG4VsXQw0A/UaqqV6TBmBI/AAAAAAAADWk/okwWsq4gJR0/s640/blogger-image-149602024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GGG4VsXQw0A/UaqqV6TBmBI/AAAAAAAADWk/okwWsq4gJR0/s640/blogger-image-149602024.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>This week we got UP fitness bands. Since wearing them for 3 days we are now able to see how many steps we take, how much deep sleep, light sleep and even how long it takes for us to fall asleep. <div><br></div><div>It is very cool but the reason it helps make better / healthier choices is because we are now accountable and we get immediate feedback. Deni can see what I have done and I can see what she has done. </div><div><br></div><div>It even allows u to be on teams for an additional challenge if u want that. A lot of times we make unwise or unhealthy choices because we think it won't hurt, no one will know or I will make it right later. With his little bracelet, we get instant feedback. </div><div><br></div><div>This thing will even remind u (by a light vibration) that u have been sitting for 15 - 30 mins. If we are in the car or if I am at my desk checking emails, I am gently nudged to get up and move around. </div><div><br></div><div>My point: we all like instant feedback. We like to see "likes" or comments on our posts, we like to see the number go down on the scale, we like to get a laugh at a joke - whatever feedback or affirmation looks like to u, we like it immediately. </div><div><br></div><div>What if we were this intentional with our spiritual lives - c'mon somebody!!!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-39373873799759658622013-05-26T22:45:00.001-04:002013-05-26T22:45:07.919-04:00Starting point<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-fYRhuxJH-qw/UaLIsqUNRII/AAAAAAAADWU/Mpl36TUA1dM/s640/blogger-image-1265998283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-fYRhuxJH-qw/UaLIsqUNRII/AAAAAAAADWU/Mpl36TUA1dM/s640/blogger-image-1265998283.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">About every 6 weeks I am totally re-energized. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">No matter how frustrated I get, how bad things go, how things get misperceived, how many people say they will do something then don't - none of that matters because every 6 weeks I am reminded why I do what I do. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In an environment called "starting point", Konan and I present the story of how we started, where we are now and where we feel like God is leading C3. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get fired up every time I hear our pastor tell the story of "what if..." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What if there was a place people genuinely felt welcome. What if people wanted to take off the masks. What if they trusted us enough to invite their friends. What if they believed Gods promises. What if they truly wanted a personal relationship with Jesus. What if they loved other people. What if they lived with a different focus other than themselves or more money. What if...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">C3 gets to meet amazing people every week. We are blessed with guests and a lot of those guests attend starting point to hear "the story". </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My point: getting to hear the reason we started this journey about 7 years ago keeps everything in perspective. Keeping that focus helps minimize the challenges of life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If ur getting frustrated or burnt out, revisit the reason u started. What was your starting point???</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-76140945352040997312013-05-25T20:46:00.001-04:002013-05-25T20:46:15.996-04:00Trophy<div>Some people work hard regardless. Some work harder if there is a cash prize and some are good with a trophy. </div><div><br></div><div>I think the trophy is a little overrated. Not because I don't have any but because the ones I do have are in places that no one can see or would even care to see. </div><div><br></div><div>Trophies seem to be like golf or fishing stories. No matter how awesome they are to you, no one else really seems to care. Even if they act like they care, they definitely don't carry the excitement you do. </div><div><br></div><div>My point: The value of a trophy is in ur accomplishment. No one can ever take away what you achieved. No one will be as excited as you but you didn't earn it for anyone but yourself. I like looking at trophies to remember the accomplishment. </div><div><br></div><div>I don't necessarily need a visual reminder but when looking at them, it forces you to relive the experience. Celebrate it again or learn from it and allow it to drive u to be better. </div><div><br></div><div>If everyone gets a trophy, it loses its value - just sayin...</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>FYI this is the C3 softball trophy from a few years ago. C3 couldn't wait to get it and now can't wait to earn another one. I guess this one is feeling all alone in the electrical closet of the church. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-alOUgh43yBE/UaFbVZceRLI/AAAAAAAADWE/YUs6D1bPigQ/s640/blogger-image--1357640120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-alOUgh43yBE/UaFbVZceRLI/AAAAAAAADWE/YUs6D1bPigQ/s640/blogger-image--1357640120.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-2140473960642806292013-05-19T23:07:00.001-04:002013-05-19T23:07:02.728-04:00Just love emWe are transitioning a lot of amazing people to help in C3 kids. We spent some time writing job descriptions, talking about priorities, how to run more efficiently, making sure the training process is efficient and lookin at our communication. Not to say all that is not important but when it comes right down to it, the best thing we can do to have a lasting impact on these amazing kids - is simply love em. <div><br></div><div>Our children's volunteers are the heroes of Sunday morning. Without them, no one would be able to pay attention in the adult service. Every person who makes a decision to change for the better is able to so so because the children are being kept safe and taught biblical principals in an age appropriate environment. If all our children were in the adult service, it would be crazy and impossible to control them let alone pay attention. </div><div><br></div><div>My point: I talk to a lot of people who don't feel "qualified" to work in kids ministry but if all u can do is love em, that's enuf. </div><div><br></div><div>When these kids are grown they probably won't remember all the creative ways we communicated but without a doubt they will remember the ways we communicate love. </div><div><br></div><div>If all u can do is show love - that's enuf. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xjz463vlABA/UZmTVIYsSZI/AAAAAAAADV0/nBkkSp9-sd8/s640/blogger-image--159393334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xjz463vlABA/UZmTVIYsSZI/AAAAAAAADV0/nBkkSp9-sd8/s640/blogger-image--159393334.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-20375398176432426692013-05-18T21:50:00.001-04:002013-05-18T21:50:50.908-04:00BikingGot up early to go for a 25 mile bike ride while it was sprinkling. After that the family went for a bike ride in the sunshine. <div><br></div><div>It was a great day. I love getting out and riding but the coolest part of my morning ride was who I got to ride with. I am getting to know a neighbor who lives down the street. Riding was a great way to spend about an and a half talking and getting to know each other better. </div><div><br></div><div>The family bike ride was beneficial for many reasons. The whole family was together, we were doing something as a family, it was physical activity instead of sitting in front of a tv and it made memories. </div><div><br></div><div>My point: it really doesn't matter what ur doing, what matters is enjoying the journey. Make intentional efforts to have conversations. Invite people u don't know well and use it as an opportunity to get to know them better. </div><div><br></div><div>I want people to be able to trust me and spending time together really helps allow that to happen. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gTFNvsDITfk/UZgv9lDJumI/AAAAAAAADVo/sZ784QjA_WA/s640/blogger-image--1375233217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gTFNvsDITfk/UZgv9lDJumI/AAAAAAAADVo/sZ784QjA_WA/s640/blogger-image--1375233217.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-71319815197540671832013-05-12T23:22:00.001-04:002013-05-12T23:22:53.710-04:00Sign of happiness<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-cseFEUqE4y4/UZBciQ3cC4I/AAAAAAAADPQ/FAniY1F4vl8/s640/blogger-image--1957773167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-cseFEUqE4y4/UZBciQ3cC4I/AAAAAAAADPQ/FAniY1F4vl8/s640/blogger-image--1957773167.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Few things make me happier than these faces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today @C3 we talked about passing things down to our children. If we don't deal with our insecurities we will no doubt pass them down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have heard it said what we do in moderation, our kids will do in excess. This is very exciting when it comes to things like being generous, praying, helping others and all the good things but there is another side to this statement. What about worry, fear, pride, poor decisions...ouch. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The greatest thing we can do for our children is to model what we want them to be. They will probably not remember the countless lectures we have spent hours preparing. They will not see all the thought that goes into a decision but what they will see if you. Everyday in every situation and circumstance - they will see you. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My point: be what you want your children to be. Ask yourself "what do I want my children to be?" - then go be that. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today Hannah (7yrs) came to wake mommy up and snuggled up while she was still in bed. Hannah decided to toot (pass gas, break wind, fart...choose ur word). Hannah followed the noise with a statement: "in some cultures that is a sign of happiness". If that's true, this house is HAPPY!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What a better way to start the day. Happy Mother's Day! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-37272908675754417992013-05-11T20:42:00.001-04:002013-05-11T20:42:28.199-04:00ACTS<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UJhUZwyzsA4/UY7lcW11ZJI/AAAAAAAADO8/1WK_mqivkeE/s640/blogger-image-694409446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UJhUZwyzsA4/UY7lcW11ZJI/AAAAAAAADO8/1WK_mqivkeE/s640/blogger-image-694409446.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was an opportunity to get a lot of people together to impact our city. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">One person had a vision to have multiple churches come together to serve the community under the name of love instead of a church name. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today there were over 450 people scattered all throughout Pickerington doing a number of different tasks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I had the privilege of helping a team assemble a playground. It was nothing but a bare spot in the beginning and the end result of a vision, a plan, a team and execution is a new playground that will be there to enjoy for many years to come. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My point: sacrifice and service is not always easy but it is always a blessing. I will always be able to look at this playground and say I got to be part of an amazing team of people who sacrificed time and energy (not to mention some ruined clothing) to make this city a little better. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I am grateful to be part of a great city and a great church. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-1556211214654237572013-05-05T23:01:00.001-04:002013-05-05T23:01:56.428-04:00Mood swingsWhen I was training for the triathlon, I read a piece of advice that said "anytime ur mood changes - eat". <br />
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I think that's what most people do anyway but this had a very intentional reason. <br />
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During the triathlon u go thru so many mental phases. One minute ur crazy excited, the next ur exhausted and just want it to be over. U get fired up when the swim starts then scared that ur gonna drown. Ur happy when the biking is finally finished then overwhelmed when u realize u still have to do a full marathon. Ur cheering other people on while wishing it was u finishing instead of just making the turn to do ur next 13 miles. <br />
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The reason the advice was to eat anytime ur mood changes is because moods change so often and that's when u need to eat - often. <br />
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When ur doing the event the last thing u want to do is eat but its exactly what you need to do. U need calories and eating as often as ur mood changes is a great way to remember to eat. I had my watch set to eat every 15 minutes but I if I ate every time my mood changed I would wouldn't have to wait 15 minutes. <br />
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What if we lived by this principle but with one minor adjustment. What if we prayed or read the bible every time our mood changed. <br />
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My point: most of the time the last thing we want to do is the best thing we can do. When we are happy, read and pray to give God thanks. When we are sad, read and pray to get comfort and peace. When we are mad, read and pray for patience and clarity. <br />
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Every time ur mood changes - read or pray. Now that would lead to some serious LifeChange (not to mention we would probably lose some weight...) <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Y17Pbrxa7k0/UYcdI74tFOI/AAAAAAAADNY/x-YgBr-gmRs/s640/blogger-image-1174081844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Y17Pbrxa7k0/UYcdI74tFOI/AAAAAAAADNY/x-YgBr-gmRs/s640/blogger-image-1174081844.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-38435158310788323032013-05-04T21:11:00.001-04:002013-05-04T21:12:20.757-04:00Butt hurtsToday was the first day I got out on the bicycle. I went with a few other guys and we rode about an hour and a half. As we were riding we were discussing how our butts are going to feel tomorrow. <br />
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I don't need to wait until tomorrow, my butt hurts now. <br />
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This made me think about how at the end of last season, my butt didn't hurt at all cuz I biked a lot and my bottom got used to the seat. <br />
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No matter how long u bike, if u take an extended time off, u will probably hurt the first time u ride after a break. <br />
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Just like lifting weights. If u don't lift for awhile then lift again, u get sore. If u don't run for awhile then run, u get sore. <br />
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I guess it's like anything. If u don't do it for awhile, u can't pick up where u left off. <br />
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Just because I did a triathlon last year, there is no way I could do it today. <br />
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Just because I read the bible last year doesn't mean I still know it or can easily apply what it says.<br />
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My point: if u want to be something, u have to be consistent. If u want to do some thing well, u have to practice it. <br />
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What do u want to do well and what is it going to take to keep doing it well. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-z8deFrc52CA/UYWx89rcbwI/AAAAAAAADJc/-xImhsSSseA/s640/blogger-image-809230638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-z8deFrc52CA/UYWx89rcbwI/AAAAAAAADJc/-xImhsSSseA/s640/blogger-image-809230638.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-2644386627517368532013-04-28T23:07:00.001-04:002013-04-28T23:07:33.094-04:00Moving partsWe are learning a lot of lessons as a growing church. <br />
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One lesson many others are beginning to learn with us is how many moving parts there are. Everything affects everything. <br />
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We have awesome volunteers and when u have a lot of people involved there will no doubt be things that won't go according to plan. <br />
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When one thing happens, sometimes it isn't a big deal but when one thing happens to many people - it becomes a big deal. <br />
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When people hear how one thing affects everything else, it motivates them to really own their part to ensure the experience is as great as it can be. <br />
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Our leadership lesson tonight was about doing the best u can with what u have. We discussed how we can even do better and got some great feedback. <br />
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My point: when we were smaller the glitches were easier to fix or cover up. As we grow, the missteps affect more people and are tougher to repair. <br />
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The best thing we can so is keep tying what we are doing to the LifeChange people are experiencing. We also need to make sure we are properly training and communicating. After that, people will be who they are. <br />
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Do what you can and be ready to make adjustments. The more moving parts you have, the more the machine can be affected. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-54697160984456747822013-04-26T21:50:00.001-04:002013-04-26T22:25:20.749-04:00Video VineI wasn't sure about the Vine app when it first came out. I signed up but only tried it once. <br />
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Since then I have seen it grow in popularity and have seen some hilarious videos. <br />
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It is amazing how funny people can be in 6 seconds. I thot twitter was crazy limiting a tweet to 140 characters and thot Vine was even crazier to limit someone to 6 seconds. I was crazy for thinking people couldn't utilize the very limited time. <br />
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I started thinking how it forces you to prepare more when u have limited time or space. Sometimes its easier to ramble for 30 minutes than to prepare a strategic 5 minute message. <br />
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Companies pay thousands, sometimes millions for 30 second commercials. In this day of multimedia, it is not difficult to find something to entertain us. When someone tells me to watch a video I always ask "how long is it?". If it is longer than about 3 minutes I usually don't want to "waste my time". <br />
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My point: time is valuable and it only proves if we are strategic with it, we can accomplish a lot. We don't need to say a lot, we need to say meaningful things. <br />
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I am a fan of vine because I can watch a lot in a little amount of time. <br />
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I remember reading a book called "say it in 30 seconds or less" - exactly <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fa6XTweEokI/UXsu_Qv4AdI/AAAAAAAADAs/2ek-EtN70M0/s640/blogger-image--1118653845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fa6XTweEokI/UXsu_Qv4AdI/AAAAAAAADAs/2ek-EtN70M0/s640/blogger-image--1118653845.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-68755847441139855412013-04-21T23:11:00.001-04:002013-04-21T23:11:56.867-04:00Reuben, Lil Bill & Billy RayLast week the biggest problem I had to solve was how to stay cool in the hot sun. I know, u feel sorry for me. <br />
<br />
Well, it seems the Dominican Republic had a solution called a "cool tub". Not to be confused with a hot tub. <br />
<br />
I met some interesting people in the cool tub. I don't know their names but I will can tell u what I called em. One guy looked just like Reuben Studdard from American idol so I called him Reuben. Another guy was from Poland and his friend was from the Ukraine so that's how I referred to them. The last guy had a striking resemblance to the cartoon character based on Bill Cosby called Lil Bill, so we called him Lil Bill. <br />
<br />
We were all having a great time in our new cool tub community then Reuben realized everyone had a name except me. Since I don't resemble anyone famous so they were struggling, but then Reuben made the parallel to my facial hair "soul patch" and the facial hair of Billy Ray Cyrus. That is all it took, from then on, every time I saw my new cool tub friends, they called me "Billy Ray". <br />
<br />
My point: people love community. It doesn't take long to connect with people and create memories but it does take an intentional effort. I will never see these people again but they will be forever in my memory. I don't even know their real names but I will always remember our cool tub community. <br />
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To create great memories, you don't have to share a cool tub of water full of who knows what - but u do have to share life. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-WLYMS3yilrE/UXSqetURAOI/AAAAAAAAC7o/EeWol9BMSTo/s640/blogger-image--2047384240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-WLYMS3yilrE/UXSqetURAOI/AAAAAAAAC7o/EeWol9BMSTo/s640/blogger-image--2047384240.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-79620331179845420232013-04-20T19:22:00.001-04:002013-04-20T19:25:30.742-04:00To do: NothingWell we hit the ground in Miami today after 5 nights in the beautiful Dominican Republic. <br />
<br />
I will remember many things about this trip but the theme that kept coming up was "nothing". <br />
<br />
We woke up whenever we wanted and did whatever we wanted. If we wanted to do nothing, that's what we did. There was access to food pretty much anytime. Transportation would take u anywhere u wanted at just about any hour. <br />
<br />
We made a plan that went something like this: wake up whenever and do nothing. Then go eat and go back to doing nothing. After that we will lay at the beach or pool while doing nothing. After hours of doing nothing, we were hungry again so we would eat at a diff restaurant then resume- yep, nothing. This continued until we decided to turn in for the night to resume doing nothing the next day. <br />
<br />
My point: we live in a fast paced world but it was absolutely incredible to do nothing for so long. It took us 10 years to take this trip but hopefully it won't be another 10 before we can do nothing again. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rmzp3RLXENw/UXMj6SruKYI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/QEfZ1vwrrT0/s640/blogger-image--968397937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rmzp3RLXENw/UXMj6SruKYI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/QEfZ1vwrrT0/s640/blogger-image--968397937.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-57150128280733912612013-04-14T23:54:00.001-04:002013-04-14T23:54:35.934-04:00Happy?This sept will be my 10yr wedding anniversary. We are finally going to go on a vacation together. We are going to go to the Dominican Republic. I heard great things about it. <br />
<br />
Each anniversary is a milestone but it really made me think about why people say "happy" anniversary. <br />
<br />
People say "happy" whether they know if it is actually a celebration for the couple or not. Whether it is happy or not, I agree it should be celebrated because they chose to stay together. <br />
<br />
Most people say it because they just don't know what else to say. Have u ever heard of anyone saying "crappy anniversary" or "not too bad anniversary"?<br />
<br />
My point: we decide whether we have a happy anniversary or not. Staying together is a choice and happy is also a choice. My happiness does not depend on anyone else. Having an anniversary is a choice and making it happy is also a choice. <br />
<br />
Of course I am talking about a marriage anniversary. There are definitely some anniversaries of very tough times that will not bring happy memories. <br />
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Happy is depends on me. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZmR8Ka7jNeM/UWt56Tw1X7I/AAAAAAAACvk/xduejkv3W0I/s640/blogger-image--814550302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZmR8Ka7jNeM/UWt56Tw1X7I/AAAAAAAACvk/xduejkv3W0I/s640/blogger-image--814550302.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-69148224125557371512013-04-13T22:59:00.001-04:002013-04-13T23:13:35.304-04:00If nothing ever changes...The word "change" stirs up a lot of emotions. I guess it all depends on the lens you are looking thru. Uncertainty, excitement, anxious, cautious, angry, sad, uneasy, indifferent and joy are just a few of the words people use to describe change. <br />
<br />
C3 is going thru some changes. Come to think about it, C3 always seems to be in a season of change. The one thing that stays the same is the consistency of change. <br />
<br />
People are affected by change and I have had to have some tough conversations, some uncomfortable ones and some pleasant ones. <br />
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I started saying this statement (be ready, it's pretty profound): "if nothing ever changes, nothing ever changes". <br />
<br />
Did u get the full effect of it. Did it impact you deeply. Did it hit confuse you. Did it insult you. Did it make you think - yea, me too. <br />
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My point: if C3 is constantly changing, everything & everyone has to continue changing as we'll. I have learned to love it and hate it at the same time. I think others have too. <br />
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We don't get to rest because change causes you to adjust. We don't get to celebrate long because the next change is coming soon. We don't get to coast or set the cruise control because the speed is never the same. <br />
<br />
Here's the truth: if nothing ever changes, nothing ever changes. If everything stays the same, then everything stays the same. But If everything changes, then everything changes. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-93IvqEMG0U8/UWobeDFzK-I/AAAAAAAACvU/pcrnRSxGwxg/s640/blogger-image--316294633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-93IvqEMG0U8/UWobeDFzK-I/AAAAAAAACvU/pcrnRSxGwxg/s640/blogger-image--316294633.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-3116533427531585552013-04-07T21:31:00.001-04:002013-04-07T21:31:18.151-04:00Checklists, serving and smart mouthsHannah made her checklist for tomorrow. It may look like she needs Gatorade for school and dance but to her it says "get ready". <br />
<br />
I had the privilege of driving a C3 student home tonight to a neighbors house. He came to C3 tonight to help with childcare. He told me he loves serving. <br />
<br />
I had a conversation with a school teacher and she was saying how you can tell if the father is in the home of her 3rd grade students. You can tell by the way they talk, the way they treat others and definitely in the way they show respect or disrespect to her as a teacher. <br />
<br />
All these examples are of kids modeling what they see their parents do. My wife and I put everything into our calendars for each to see. I have to do lists and checklists everywhere. Hannah is modeling what she sees her parents do. <br />
<br />
The student I drove home has two amazing parents at home who were serving as community group leaders tonight and that is why their son needed a ride home. They are both very active in our church and so are their other 2 children. This kid loves doing what he sees his parents do. <br />
<br />
The last example of the kids behavior at school is sad. Instead of some of them having a positive example at home, some of them have a poor example or no example at all. <br />
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My point: parents can't u underestimate our role in our children's lives. They will do what they see us do not necessarily what we tell them to do. If we see qualities or traits in our children, chances are they see it in us. Whether its positive or negative, most of the responsibility is ours to carry. <br />
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What are your kids doing that drive you crazy - look in the mirror. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-aJqHKsAlYUY/UWId4V7h30I/AAAAAAAACvE/bHIXm0ftKu8/s640/blogger-image-1280076478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-aJqHKsAlYUY/UWId4V7h30I/AAAAAAAACvE/bHIXm0ftKu8/s640/blogger-image-1280076478.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-86483402769097004362013-04-06T23:58:00.001-04:002013-04-06T23:58:16.327-04:00No sweatThere was a commercial that said "never let em see you sweat". <br />
<br />
When I was in the Air Force my job was "emergency action controller". Basically I was trained by the United States military to stay calm in high stress situations. <br />
<br />
The way we responded to situations set the tone for the entire base so it was very important for us to stay calm. <br />
<br />
This is a good principle for our team as a church. When there is a situation, everyone is watching how we handle it. If there is a misspelled word, if someone sings the wrong words to the song, if a mic squeals, if a speaker blows, if a light burns out, if a kid takes off running while screaming, our reaction should always be the same - calm. <br />
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If we stay calm the people around us will feel like we have everything under control whether we really do or not. <br />
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My point: the perception everything is under control brings calm. When we overreact, others may freak out and make the situation even worse. <br />
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Overreacting is always a bad idea. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j8PufPYEhcs/UWDu1no4O4I/AAAAAAAACu0/PxR_6qdhMfo/s640/blogger-image--95360705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j8PufPYEhcs/UWDu1no4O4I/AAAAAAAACu0/PxR_6qdhMfo/s640/blogger-image--95360705.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-4376593866282876632013-03-31T23:31:00.001-04:002013-03-31T23:31:51.570-04:00Teenagers, tattoo artist & bankersToday @C3 I looked around the room and was amazed at what I saw. <br />
<br />
Gauging success is easy in school but how do you determine success in the church world. <br />
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The C3 report card is scored on LifeChange. When someone takes a step beyond where they are we celebrate it. The ultimate goal is to give them the information to make a LifeChanging decision. <br />
<br />
Today I was struck by the diversity I noticed when I looked around the room. I saw my 16yr old daughter and a lot of her friends, I saw a tattoo artist and a banker. If that isn't cool I don't know what is. <br />
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We say we want to be a church where you feel comfortable inviting your friends. Based on that criteria - success. <br />
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My point: we could easily point to the offering or the 1100+ people that showed up this weekend but we want to celebrate more than that. We celebrate small steps and major decisions. We celebrate teenagers inviting their friends, we celebrate our banker showing up in his sweater vest and we celebrate our people inviting the one who gave them a tattoo. <br />
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We are blown away at what is going on at C3 and we celebrate being part of it. <br />
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What other environment will you see teenagers, tattoo artists and bankers. <br />
<br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-aB54Kb9d8LA/UVj_pMAEnmI/AAAAAAAACgE/NzyukpCUhA8/s640/blogger-image--1385670341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-aB54Kb9d8LA/UVj_pMAEnmI/AAAAAAAACgE/NzyukpCUhA8/s640/blogger-image--1385670341.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-21519611641092662252013-03-30T22:45:00.001-04:002013-03-30T23:24:33.125-04:00Go positiveI love throwing a good positive over a potential negative. <br />
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I kind of enjoy when a person is trying to be negative about someone and I don't go there. I will say things like: we don't know the whole story, you're definitely entitled to your opinion, that's not the same person I know, let's give em the benefit of the doubt or don't you think that's an unfair perspective. <br />
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Sometimes I will be more direct and tell them they are being negative or ask if they would be saying that if the other person were standing here. <br />
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The final tactic is to blow up the negative with a positive. I try to talk about something really good about the person just to get the negative person to either see a different side or just shut up. <br />
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My point: one of the easiest things to be is negative. One of the hardest things do is be positive around negative people. Training yourself ahead of time, knowing how you will respond to negativity is a great defense to negativity. <br />
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The next time someone goes negative - be positive. It will either make them mad or make them quiet. Either way, you're better off. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7LrG4h4SPz8/UVejUFAlHlI/AAAAAAAACf0/OEONlAyNfgo/s640/blogger-image-1079477909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7LrG4h4SPz8/UVejUFAlHlI/AAAAAAAACf0/OEONlAyNfgo/s640/blogger-image-1079477909.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-85928136624763953302013-03-24T21:49:00.001-04:002013-03-24T22:02:32.269-04:00HonorThis is a great of woman. This great woman is mourning the loss of a great man who served our great country. <br />
<br />
The viewing and the funeral were absolutely incredible. The outpouring of love and support to honor Tim's life was nothing short of amazing. <br />
<br />
Tim was honored by the US military and his wife was presented with a gift she will always cherish. Tim was honored by friends and family by attending his funeral and showing his girls love. Tim was honored by people sharing memories of how his life made theirs better. Many many people honored Tim. <br />
<br />
One great thing was Tim was around long enough to hear people honor him so he could appreciate it. <br />
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My point: we need to honor people when they are alive to hear it as well as when they are no longer with us. Life is way to short to wait until a "better time" to show love and honor to those who deserve it. Show honor as you can because you are not guaranteed another opportunity. <br />
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It's times like these that make you wonder what you will be remembered for and how will you be honored. <br />
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Our friend Tim Caudill died way before his time and we will miss him dearly. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3YOvmcC2XPY/UU-tFt9QxGI/AAAAAAAACZ0/AbfpGYqslF8/s640/blogger-image--493166002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3YOvmcC2XPY/UU-tFt9QxGI/AAAAAAAACZ0/AbfpGYqslF8/s640/blogger-image--493166002.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-61118494403494963942013-03-23T22:07:00.001-04:002013-03-23T22:07:31.169-04:00See, I told youI remember when we moved to Pickerington and we were taking a family walk in a neighborhood when a couple kids ride by and one yelled "O-H" to which we responded "I-O". <br />
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After we completed our part, the one who yelled OH turned to the other kid and said "see, I told you". He was proving to the other one that no matter where you yell it, someone will complete it. <br />
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It's great to take such pride in our state that you can always count on the pride being returned. <br />
<br />
That's how it felt today at the C3 EGGstravaganza. We put it on as a gift to the community. Lots of people showed up as if to say - see, I told you. <br />
<br />
When we started C3 our goal was to be a positive influence in this community. I think many families have started bringing people to this event to show them its possible to have fun for free and we don't try to convince anyone to attend our church. It's a gift. <br />
<br />
We have done this event every year we have been a church. I love people expect this event. We have positively influenced this community and many people can trust us to say - see, I told you it wouldn't be weird. <br />
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My point: do things you are proud of. We are proud to be part of a great church in a great city in a great state. <br />
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When people look at you and say to someone else "see I told you" - what so they mean??? <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-i2QOeVX_0cc/UU5f4RA4n0I/AAAAAAAACZQ/QJmeBglAZjg/s640/blogger-image--93573664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-i2QOeVX_0cc/UU5f4RA4n0I/AAAAAAAACZQ/QJmeBglAZjg/s640/blogger-image--93573664.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-10316589616296592132013-03-17T22:20:00.001-04:002013-03-17T22:20:59.072-04:00DR3AMWe had C3s version of an annual business meeting tonight. We had close to 130 people show up to celebrate 2012 and get excited about 2013. <br />
<br />
We presented some incredible information about how great 2012 was and how much greater we believe 2013 is going to be.<br />
<br />
We shared these 2012 stats: <br />
-605 first time guests<br />
-324 salvations/recommitments<br />
-59 baptisms<br />
-412 participated in 31 Comm Groups <br />
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We don't talk about these things to brag on anyone other than Jesus. As a church we are blessed to have an incredible team dedicated to accomplishing the vision of our pastor - Loving people to LifeChange. <br />
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We gave staffing updates and introduced our newest team member, this received a huge round of applause. <br />
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My point: a DR3AM requires action. Action requires a plan and a plan requires amazing people. C3 has been blessed with all the above. <br />
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We can't wait to say "no way" every time God does something amazing. Maybe we will get to the point where we say "of course He did" but for now we will stay in awe of what God continues to do. <br />
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We love Pickerington and I am living the DR3AM. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TS29zNbIqBY/UUZ6Cc6eYbI/AAAAAAAACY4/hDxIM9AAL_4/s640/blogger-image--974746679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TS29zNbIqBY/UUZ6Cc6eYbI/AAAAAAAACY4/hDxIM9AAL_4/s640/blogger-image--974746679.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8696655701698795793.post-35410169028410522842013-03-16T10:16:00.001-04:002013-03-16T22:24:42.411-04:00Why do you play?Rae (5yrs old) and I were playing tic tac toe and this is the board and its her move. What's a 5yr old to do?<br />
<br />
My little left handed princess grabbed her crayon and started to put her X in a spot and I paused her and asked her what are you doing?<br />
<br />
Before she answered, I told her to look at the whole board. Hannah (7yrs old) started to tell her what to do and I stopped her. I said Rae, what's the goal? And she said looked at me with a "are u kidding me" look and said "to win". <br />
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My point: sometimes we get so caught up playing defense that we forget to play offense. Sometimes we view ourselves as the victim and overlook the fact we are victorious. Sometimes we play not to lose instead of to win. <br />
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Sometimes we need to step back and get a fresh perspective. Sometimes a pause before we move is all that's needed. <br />
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What's the goal? What are u trying to do. Who are you? <br />
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If the goal is to win, play offense. If the goal is to win - WIN!<br />
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Rae made the right move - she won <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KCM07jqKSiI/UUSFCWxl2cI/AAAAAAAACYo/7VXxHipA1Ds/s640/blogger-image-915017805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KCM07jqKSiI/UUSFCWxl2cI/AAAAAAAACYo/7VXxHipA1Ds/s640/blogger-image-915017805.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08419532637140014270noreply@blogger.com0