I was born in February of 1968. Yes, I know I am old. My parents were in Bible college in Ohio, so I was born a Buckeye. But after three incredible months in Ohio, I needed to spread my wings. So, we moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. And then Minneapolis. And then back to Iowa, to Des Moines. That’s where I grew up.

I stayed in Iowa and went to a small Christian college that was far enough to be away, but close enough to do laundry. There I double majored in Communications and Philosophy.

That degree equipped me to wait tables and manage 50s diners for seven or eight years. But during that time, I was also serving as an “interim” youth pastor for twelve years. I still read at least one philosophy book a year and love the perspective studying ideas gives me.

Wow. Maybe talking about myself isn’t as bad as talking about all of my failures. But honestly, most of my failures are likely more self-imposed criticisms than realities, if I am honest. I hate that I spent some time living selfishly, hurting my parents and some other great people.  

That is a three-way tie. My kids are my greatest accomplishment. I just hope I leave an example and legacy that they will be proud of. My parents are still my greatest influences, and I hope I am the same to my daughters and my son. They are my favorite.

I am afraid of snakes. Even if I just see them on TV or in a movie or something, I’ll have a hard time sleeping. But my greatest fears are failure and rejection. Those are major triggers that likely keep me from attempting some pretty important things.

I read while I listen to music; and like the music I listen to, what I read is totally dependent on my mood. But, I do have some favorites. A Prayer for Owen Meany is a favorite novel, as is Juliet Naked. I never get tired of those stories. I still find great motivation in a book called Chasing Daylight by Erwin McManus. And I’ve given away a lot of copies of Everybody Always by Bob Goff. While I read a LOT of books, those are likely the top ones for me.

Now that is a long answer. But here are a few that I dig, according to Spotify’s year end wrap-up. Hammock is probably who I listen to the most. Their ethereal, ambient soundscapes are rapturous. I also spend a lot of time with U2, The Cure, The Jesus & Mary Chain, and The Choir. But in addition to rock-and-roll, I am also a big fan of old 50s and 60s Blue Note jazz.

That’s another tough one. Can I have a few statements?

Sure. It’s your website.

First, I’d say that “making sure” is a terrible excuse for apathy. Get moving; do something. And if you fail, at least you are failing in motion and making progress. Second, I think there are more “good” things in the world than “bad.” Rather than focusing on the “bad,” there is a world of “good” that could capture your attention instead. And finally, every single person is worthy of love. Find a way to love others and do not stop.

Thanks for stopping by! And for making it this far into my site. I hope something I write inspires you in some way. Sometime. When that happens, I’d love to hear from you!