I want to live like no one else so I can live like no one else!

I am finally sick of being in debt. Today, I am pledging to do something about it. I spent most of my day shopping with my mom and nephews. The whole time I was asking myself, why are they buying so much junk. My nephews said that they just wanted to be like me. I told them immediately, I don't buy to buy. They asked me then why did I buy? Today, people I am pledging to live like no one else so that later on I can live like no one else.

Don't get me wrong I am in a very good position financially. I have been saving for retirement since I was 24. I do have some old debts that won't go away. I will now channel my vision on my debts. I don't want to be slaved to the lender. I want to be free.

A few reminders are in order for those still listening. Remember, I am 38. I have been out of college for a while now. I am single. No children or grandchildren to take care of. Full disclosure, I have taken care of many in my family over the years. I have cut back in that area big time since moving back to Georgia. I do love to give to those who ask. I have been so blessed and that is my way of giving back. I give back in other ways as well. Volunteering my time a lot to service is the biggest way I love to give.

Now, stop reading and go make a written budget plan for the rest of the month. Mine is easy since I have paid all of my bills.

Are you a good resource?

In my own world, I try my best to be a good resource for others. I was thinking today about people who wants to be a good resource and never are called upon to help others. I am guilty of this, are you? Are there people around you willing to help, and you don't let them. Why? Serving others is one the greatest feeling I have in life. Giving the opportunity for others to serve is a good thing. Now, go and allow those around you to serve with you instead of you doing it all by yourself.

Last night, I went to a rehearsal of the Gwinnett Symphony Chorus. I think I will join them, but it was a very intimidating experience. All in one night, we sang, German, Latin, and Italian. All in one night. I was worned out as well. 3 hour rehearsal. They were getting ready for their Sunday performance. It was good overall. I look forward to this summer activity.

Summer is around the corner. Please come fast!

What is going on?

Right now I am finishing up this semester with many service project with my junior high kids. I love to serve. My prayer is that my students will get into serving as well. I have the best boss who rarely ever tells me no. I do feel pretty good where I am today.

Christmas Musical is going on at church. We had a technical rehearsal tonight. It was the best so far since I have been at East Cobb. Ray Hawkins does a great job directing and putting this thing together. I think he is my long lost brother from another mother. He does a lot of good. I trust this about him, and love partnering with at East Cobb.

Christmas and a new year is upon us. I am going to be taking it easy. 2009 should be a great year for me. I don't know why, but I just believe it should be a great year. I will turn 38. I am looking forward to it instead of dreading it like the last 2 years. We will have to see what God has planned for me next year.

I am very happy being in a country that is suppose to be struggling financially, give as it does around this time of year. I worked today in a local ministry that serves as a food bank and to witness the good spirit of the people is amazing. God is Good!

Be safe this holiday!

Searcy

It has been great to be in searcy, Arkansas for the last three weeks. I have caught up with many, but still have not seen quite a few. I made the decision to rejoined Harding's President Council. Mainly, I wanted to give back to a place that gave me sooo much. Many of you were quite surprised that I would leave. It has been a good thing in me leaving. I still have a love for this great University. Those reading, I would encourage you to give back whether small or big. When and if you come back to campus, it has changed in many ways. But the spirit and memories that you have will come back. I want you to then decide to give back so others can have or make some of the same memories. I know for some these are bad economic times. I know that I have been blessed by God now and all of my life. When you look at the buildings at Harding immediately you might think that "Oh, they got plenty of money, they wont miss mine". I gave for scholarships which Mike Williams ( a good friend) tells me that Harding continues having a need to offer scholarship. People will give to a building and we need those people to do that. We also need you and I to help those attend the same place we had so many life changing memories. Just consider it! Those who teach and preach, I believe they still have a special way for you to join the President Council cheaper. Anyway, It has been good to be in Searcy!

Feeling Healthy!

I am on a health kick today. Lunch will be here in a few minutes and I am thinking about giving up my sweet tea! I can't believe it. After my 4 mile walks, I have been drinking a lot of water. By the way, the treadmill experience has been great. I like it a lot! I am sweating for Jesus on that thing especially when I try to keep up with all of the ladies in the room.

Confession: I am trying to control my bloodsugar, and lose weight for the summer. It is my goal to return to school in the fall a different man. I am still loving the protein bars- I am just trying to find them with less sugar.

I have paid my bills for the month. I am wanting to live on less. I am doing a great job so far. Living in an apartment, I have gotten my electic bill below $20. I can't believe it either. That is what the bill said, so I will pay it! Hallelujah!

Confession: I am wanting to give more to church and other good organization. I was not a proud man when I did my taxes thinking I gave more than I did. At our church, this sunday is Mission Sunday, so I have planned on making a generous contribution. We do it twice a year. My goal is to double what I give this sunday the next Mission sunday in October. It's bold, but you have to have goals that require faith.

Have a blessed day! I teach the College students to tonight. Pray for them. We are a very small group but have great conversations about life.