The Leadership Equation

Getting Even... Psalm 25:3b

2012-01-04T10:26:00.000-06:00

I received an interesting anonymous package yesterday at work which tries to indict an employee as using improper actions to help another employee gain a new position. There are all kinds of ramifications going on here and it all makes me sad, laugh, and become frustrated all at once. I'm working through this as we usher in 2012 (Happy New Year to me, ha) with caution, trying to hold my human preferences at bay and not jump to hasty conclusions or decisions. In so doing I came across Psalm 25:3b in my daily devotional readings today.
"... shame comes to those who are treacherous without cause."

I am not naive and I am confident of those who may be involved in all this. Trying to get even, or in our own mind get justice, can be a very dangerous thing. Whether legitimately wronged or not, vengeance is not something we're very good at. Maybe that's why the Lord said vengeance belonged to Him? Getting even (vengeance) most often back fires on us and it could very well in this incidence? Sometimes we believe we are just in our actions to get even, but in the larger scheme of things I think we often fall into the category of King David's words, "... without cause."

I wonder how many times we act hastily to our own detriment? What we perceive as just cause in our own minds needs to be held up against God's standard of just cause. Better yet, in most cases it's just better to let it all go and not be put to shame.

I'm not sure of the outcome of this yet, but I am confident that someone will be exposed to shame, if not worse.

Lead Strong in difficult circumstances,

Shawn

How You Respond to New Opportunities Says A Lot About You and Your Organization

2011-11-21T07:51:00.000-06:00

This was shared by my VPAA and I thought it worth sharing with others...

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Optimistic enthusiasm as a form of realism

How does your organization respond to new opportunities?

Most companies launch new things, try out new initiatives, brainstorm new approaches. The internal response (or reaction) to these ventures is a cultural choice, one that often turns into a self-fulfilling prophecy.

If your organization is both pessimistic and operationally focused, then every new idea is a threat. It represents more work, something that could go wrong, a chance for disaster. People work to protect against the downside, to insulate against the market, to be sure that they won't get blamed for anything that challenges the system. In organizations like this, a new idea has to be proven to be better than the current status quo in all situations before it gets launched.

On the other hand, an organization filled with people who are rewarded for shaking things up and generating game-changing products and services just might discover that outcomes they are dreaming of are in fact what happen. The enthusiasm that comes from believing that this one might just resonate with the market is precisely the ingredient that's required to make something resonate.

One more thing: outsiders are way more likely to approach your organization with fabulous projects if they think they're likely to both get a good reception and succeed when they get to market.

Dads Against Daughters Dating

2011-11-04T09:51:00.002-05:00

Gotta Love It!!

Reflections from an aging Warrior

2011-09-30T09:03:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, September 24th 5 "Warriors" from Amarillo First Nazarene headed to Tulsa, OK to run in the Warrior Dash, a 3.25 mile obstacle course... just for the fun of it (and yes, we paid good money to do so). Being the oldest of course I had to prove that "I still had it." Someone whom I consider a true friend, Al, and his wife Jerrie and son Chase ran it, as well as a friend from our Life Group, Brian (who by the way is visually impaired) ran it as well.

To let you get a picture in your mind let me see if I can retrace this event (that 7500+ participated in). We began our journey at 10:30 with several hundred other Warriors. We started out on a nice paved road for about 1 mile, slightly downhill. In fact, so easy was this part of the race that Al and I wondered if we had wasted our time and money (Al is a Capt. in the Army reserves about to head back to Kubul in January so his perspective of difficult is viewed through a slightly different lens). We came to some fairly easy obstacles that involved some hurdling (or climbing over depending on your perception and recollection of the day) some walls and then it hit, straight up a Tulsa mountain (okay, it was really a pretty good size wooded hill, but the farther along we went the more it resembled a mountain). Somewhere in all of this Al and I got separated. As Warriors, we zig-zagged up this wooded trail for what seemed miles, and soon realized the trail was the obstacle. Crazy people were trying to pass others and taking advantage of any flat or downhill parts would fly by those who needed to walk. Somewhere in all of this I think we reached the top and in front of us was a body of water with logs stretched across it. Entering some very cold water that quickly became neck deep we figured out the best way to go over the logs was in a partnership with other Warriors. Cold and wet coming out of the water the trail became very muddy, only to lead to a 30 foot cargo net wall that many found very difficult not only to climb up, but even more difficult to climb down on the other side (funny how your fear of heights kicks in when your atop a 30 foot structure with only 1 way down). From there we encountered some more walls that the creators of this event placed periodically along the way. Some had ropes to help you up, others only had one side and the other side was left to your imagination to get down. Somewhere in all this there were demolished cars Warriors had to run over but where they were in the course I can't remember as it all has run together. I soon figured out that what goes up must come down, some kind of law of gravity and we quickly came to the "down." Pretty much a steep, downhill rocky run that led to more walls, barbed wire crawls (can you believe "macho Warriors" were trying to go through the barbed wire standing in a crouched position instead of crawling? There is some humor in seeing them get their backs shredded by this stuff, especially with the BIG signs that read, "This is REAL barbed wire.). More walls, more crawling, a big mud pit, and then fire. Finally the finish line! A little worse for the wear and muddy we watched for each other and celebrated our victory. By the way, Chase only beat the old guy (me) by 15 seconds. Then Al came, then Brian, and Jerrie rounded us out. Rochelle, Megan, and Jack, and Mary, Brians wife, were waiting for us cameras ready.

So what did I learn, besides that people will do the strangest things for a thrill and challenge? I learned that people will still help strangers over their obstacles in life and that obstacles are much easier to overcome with help. We don't, and shouldn't have to go it alone. I learned that just because someone can't see what I see, their vision is sometimes greater than my own. I learned that friendships are strengthened in adversity. I learned that having someone waiting for you after a tough day is worth more than about anything else. I learned not to take the easier moments in life for granted because they are just rest areas in preparation for new challenges. I learned that fears can be overcome. I learned that the challenges make us stronger and help identify our character (you can always by-pass challenges or cheat your way through them but that too is an indicator of your character).

What else did I learn? That mud dries quickly in the Tulsa sun. That people should be more cautious of what they wear in certain (public) places. That mens underwear is unattractive when wet, especially when that is all the guy is wearing. That women need to think twice about what they choose to reveal. That if you want a turkey leg get it early as they go quickly. That Tulsa has hills and Amarillo does not. I learned that friends are worth having and keeping and that I'd do it all again.

Thanks Amarillo First Nazarene Warriors, it was a great weekend. Al, when you get back from Afghanistan we're definitely doing it again!

There are leadership moments everyday, look for them today.

Lead Strong.

Baron Batch Blog - Detour

2011-08-22T09:02:00.000-05:00

Our pastor shared this blog post by Baron Batch yesterday in church, it is worth passing on.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Detour

The funny thing about all roads is that at some point they all have potholes, speed bumps and detours. However, the durability of your vehicle is what allows you to reach your destination regardless of your traveling conditions.

Friday I was supposed to play my first NFL game. That won’t happen. Today I tore my ACL. I’m not sure why I’m writing about this right now except for the fact that God put it on my heart to do so. I probably should be devastated at the fact I wont play my rookie season but… I’m not. After my season ending injury my freshman year of college I promised myself that I would never ask God “why?” again and I’m not about to start now. It’s during the tough times that we are able to grow. I’m excited to hit another growth spurt.

I’ve never been so close to something and then have it pulled away. I felt like my NFL career was within grasp, I could feel it on my fingertips only to have it pulled away and postponed. As I was being carted off the field today I could clearly hear my mothers voice whispering, “Have faith son, have faith.”

Faith is something that I will once again have to lean on more than ever as I begin the rehab process. It won’t be easy by any means but rarely is that the case with life. One thing I can assure everyone is this.

God will get glory from this and I am more than happy to be his instrument. By no means did I see this happening to me or could have possibly planned for something like this. However, I have learned time and time again that if my plans and Gods plans stayed in sync I would never be challenged to grow because I would not willingly put myself in tough situations such as this. Trying to understand Gods plan will bring insanity, trusting it brings peace.

I’m excited to see how this will be used.

How Ironic...

2011-08-01T10:37:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago a colleague asked me to speak to her team of co-workers whose grant had not been renewed. She knew that I had deactivated (closed) 3 programs in the last year and a half and thought I could address the process and all that is happening within their lives (hers included as her job was done away with as well), and maybe bring a new perspective. I was honored that she asked, maybe a little hesitant in that as an administrator I can easily be seen as the enemy and the one responsible for people losing their jobs, even though in this case I had nothing to do with any of it. So, this afternoon I will address these great people who have given their time and energy to make their program successful. Now they have lost their jobs, no fault of their own, victims of a recessed economy and reduced educational funding. However, ironically, today I'll bring a new perspective that I hadn't had until last Friday at 12:30 PM. You see, it was then that Rochelle received notice that her grant, which had been approved for another year on July 1, had now been rescinded by the TEA and she too is unemployed as of August 31.

Rochelle quipped this morning that maybe she should attend this healing session of sorts today.

It's a funny world we live in isn't it?

Lead Strong, appreciate what you have and don't take it for granted.

Shawn

Too easy to be too comfortable

2011-07-27T10:36:00.000-05:00

For some reason, and don't ask me what it is because I still haven't figured it out yet myself, but for some personal reason I am working to get my TCLEOSE license (TX Police) back. I let it lapse when I left law enforcement many - many years ago but now have this inner desire to get it back. Maybe for no other reason than "I can." Now, I have no desire to leave what I'm doing and return to law enforcement, for one reason "I'm too old! That's a young man's gig. But I still want it back.

In this process I've had to take some TCLEOSE classes to refresh my law enforcement knowledge and skills. I'm taking some classes in person and others online through TCLEOSE. Now this is where my ranting comes into play. The in-person classes have been fairly current on their content and overall well done (it's unfair for me as an educator to evaluate cops as teachers, but I can't help it). But the online classes (through TCLEOSE mind you) are another story. The content is completely outdated and just, well, wrong! So, as a good educator and former cop I called TCLEOSE (no, I can't let it go). Their response? Oh, we just hired someone to do those classes [sometime in the past] and haven't really looked at them since. I explained that the classes have incomplete sentences and words and the content is dated and wrong. They've assured me they'll review the courses, both online and in-person and make changes as necessary.

We'll see, but what this really illustrates is how easy it is to become too comfortable with what we have. The classes have worked for all this time so why should we look to see if they're still valid? We're comfortable and we haven't received any complaints so why bother? They've become too comfortable with what they have. Why bother? Because the classes are wrong! But, it's easier to leave them wrong in our comfort than it is to review and update because that stirs the pot.

Is there anything in your life (personal, work, spiritual) that you may be too comfortable with but it's too easy to leave things that way? Sometimes we have to change things just because it is the right thing to do, comfortable or not. In my role as an instructional dean I encourage my faculty to continuously review their curriculum and programs. It's not comfortable but comfort is not the agenda. Producing quality programs is. I want the same to hold true for my personal and spiritual life too. I don't wan to become too comfortable with Rochelle in our marriage, I want it to increasingly become stronger and deeper and more than it could be if we never worked on it. I never want my relationship with God to become too comfortable or easy. I want it to grow and become deeper, and yes, uncomfortable at times.

What about you? Has it become too easy to become too comfortable? Something to think about.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Heading Home...

2011-06-15T14:29:00.000-05:00

Monday, June 20, 2011. You'd think this would be a day I would be looking forward to, and in many regards I am. However, it's also a day that has been plaguing me for several months now. You see, on Monday, June 20, 2011 at 10:05 AM Rochelle, Emily, Jack, and I take off from Amarillo, TX flying to Flint, MI for a week of vacation. Flint is home. It's where I grew up, but it's also where I left the summer of 1982 to head off to college and with the exception of a few visits have not been back to.

I still have family and friends in Flint. My oldest brother Terry is coming in from PA with some of his family and my other brother Larry and his family is playing host. Over the years we've gathered for other such occasions, but always at "neutral" sites; Nashville; Branson. This is going to be a great trip and Rochelle is really looking forward to it because other than Terry, she has not met any of my family. So why the consternation over going?

I actually have no clue and no logical reason for my mixed emotions. It'll be great to see family that we don't see near enough. Maybe I feel guilty that we don't see each other enough? Maybe I feel guilty that I haven't done a better job at keeping up with childhood friends? Hmmm, no clue? I only know that this vacation comes with unexplained mixed emotions. Rochelle keeps reassuring me that it is going to be great, and I know she is right. We're touring Comerica Park (Tiger Stadium) and Detroit. We're taking a day to visit family in Muskegon and Ludington. We're eating one night at my favorite restaurant from childhood, Angelo's Coney Island. And hey, how many other people take vacation to the city (Flint) with the highest crime rate in America and then add in the #2 city (Detroit) just for kicks?

Okay, I'm convincing myself, it's going to be a great trip. Flint was home, it's where I grew up. It's different now and so am I. But I am sure going home will bring back nostalgic memories and maybe even make me appreciate it more. Hmm, highest crime rate? I wonder if Larry has a gun I can carry? Just kidding, it was probably always slightly dangerous but when you grow up there you just don't realize it as much.

Flint, MI... here we come. 6 days and counting. There has to be some leadership lessons in this somewhere? I'll keep you posted.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Do or don't do, there is no try...

2011-05-27T09:20:00.000-05:00

We get a daily report card from Jack's school detailing the events of his day, including his behavior. Yesterday when I asked Rochelle how Jack's day was she said, "not so good, look at his report card." In looking at Jack's daily report card and in listening to Rochelle describe his day I read that Jack's teacher had written that "Jack was trying to be mean to the other children." He was evidently pushing the other children, taking things from them, pulling hair, you know, toddler stuff. After I kind of snickered about it I told Rochelle that it appears to me that Jack wasn't trying to be mean, he WAS being mean, there is a difference.

I was reminded of Yoda's statement to Luke Skywalker (Star Wars) in the mossy swamp as Luke was trying to lift his X-Wing Fighter out of the swamp using only his mind. Luke was struggling and told Yoda that "he was trying." Yoda responded emphatically, "do or don't do, there is no try."

Jack wasn't trying to be mean, he was doing what he set out to do, whether he knew it was mean or not. A lot of people spend a lot of time "trying" to do something but never really accomplishing anything. That is their is excuse for not getting something done: "I'm trying." These people generally always have an excuse why they can't accomplish the task at hand. It's too hard (or heavy in Luke's case), I don't have the right resources, it's someone else's fault I can't get it done. We've all heard the excuses and probably used some ourselves.

"Do or don't do, there is no try." Many times our "trying" is just an excuse for not doing. As leaders we need to empower people to "Do." If they fail, at least they did something. It's when nothing gets done, and people use the excuse of "I'm trying" that we have failed as leaders and they have failed too.

Do or don't do today, but either way, stop using the excuse of "I'm trying." And, stop excepting the excuse of "I'm trying."

Just think about it, I think Yoda was on to something. Jack, while I don't approve of you being mean, at least you weren't trying, you were DOING little boy. Now, mom and dad just need to teach you what is and is not appropriate to do.

Lead strong,

Shawn

Change is Inevitable

2011-05-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

Marcus Aurelius said that from the moment we are conceived we are changing. With every breath we take we are changing. And, when we die we continue to change while we lie in the ground. Heraclitus said that the only constant is change. Really, to fight change is futile, and exhausting. Granted, change can be daunting, and even painful at times. But change is a reality and an opportunity for new things to take place in our lives. Change is constant, it challenges our routine, and makes us better (or can leave us behind when we fail to embrace it).

I can't believe that I no longer really need Maw Bell to provide phone service for me, my cell phone does everything I need. I find it hard to fathom that a computer can fit in the palm of my hand and no longer fills an entire room. And what would I do without my iPad? I love that thing!! Change. Think about it, do you really want to drive a Model T everyday?

I don't know about your world; your family, your professional life, but mine is in a constant state of change. It's exciting, a little frightening, a little uncertain, challenging, threatening, but exhilarating all at the same time. Stop fighting it, it is going to happen with or without you. Embrace it.Change ushers in a whole new world of opportunities for you. Remember, if you're breathing you're changing. The world around you is changing. Confront the change, own the change, grow with the change.

Just something to think about this Tuesday,

Lead Strong,

Shawn

New Perspectives

2011-05-02T10:39:00.001-05:00

The other night while taking our dogs for their evening walk Rochelle decided to reverse our normal route. While this is no big deal, to someone like me who struggles with a touch of OCD it caused a little discomfort. However, Emily happened to be with us and made a pretty profound statement, "It's amazing what you see when you change directions."

I've been thinking about what Emily so nonchalantly said ever since. As leaders (anyone for that matter) we can get so focused on where we're going that we miss things along the way that can make the journey all the more enjoyable, or even doable. Emily was absolutely right, because we had become so accustomed to taking the same route day after day we missed things along the way. But when we changed our direction we all of a sudden noticed things that were there all the time but that we missed because we were so focused on our chosen direction. The funny thing is as Emily pointed out, we still arrived at our chosen destination, but with a new perspective. Maybe it's just me, but that statement holds a lot of truth, leave it to a 17 year old with senioritis.

As I've been thinking about Emily's comments I've started to apply them to some tasks I'm working on. Have I been so focused on my destination and the route I've chosen to get there that I've missed things a long the way? Is there another route that can lead me to my preferred destination while giving me new perspectives? Have I made the journey more arduous then it should be by being locked into my route? Have I missed some incredible things along the way by not changing my route soon enough? Wow Emily, you've really made me think. Out of the mouth of babes as Scripture says.

I encourage you to think about this as well. By the way, last night Rochelle completely changed our route... enough is enough Rochelle. My OCD can only handle so much at once.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Be careful you don't lose focus

2011-04-15T11:02:00.000-05:00

I love busyness! I love work and the stress caused from work (I know, a little weird, huh?). But I also was reminded over the past couple weeks how easily it is to lose focus in the midst of doing the very things you enjoy. Remember the old cliche', "you can't see the forest for the trees."

Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in what we're doing that we can lose focus of why we're actually doing it. For me in my profession it's all about students and their success. As we approach another graduation season I'm reminded of the struggles students face to finish their educations, search for jobs, switch careers, balance family, work, and school, and for some just make it through.

Rochelle also shares my profession and her compassion this past week reminded me again of our focus. Not to embarrass her but she reached out this past week to help a student who was doing the very best she could to improve her life. But life outside the classroom was interfering with life inside the classroom. Rather than write her off Rochelle got involved on a personal level and rallied support form others and helped this young lady in a way that no one had ever done for her before (you'll have to ask Rochelle for the rest of the details, but it is amazing what God can do when people are obedient and include Him in their professional lives).

Have you taken a good look at the forest lately or are you so focused on a single tree that you've forgotten how amazing the forest is? Take a step back, breath in deep, thank God for allowing you to be where you are and to do what you are doing. Then, move forward with a renewed sense of direction, passion, and focus.

Just a thought,

Lead Strong!!

Shawn

How you word things can make all the difference...

2011-03-31T10:17:00.001-05:00

It occurs to me that when times get lean and we are forced to make tough decisions, both personally and professionally, we revert to old cliches, such as "we simply have to do more with less." I have to tell you, that is not very encouraging for any of us. Most people would respond that we've been doing more with less! As a leader I don't believe using that phrase inspires those we lead to step up and do more. I know my initial response is to ask what others are doing?

As a leader we really need to be more cognizant of how we phrase things. I need to use language that relays to others that I am more interested in doing the right things with what we've got. Rather than tell your co-workers (or family for that matter in tough times) that we have to do more with less doesn't it make more sense to relay the message of doing the right things? If as a communicators it's all in the delivery, how about we rephrase this as "we need to start prioritizing what we're doing with the resources we have." You might say that I just said the same thing. Did I? Doing more with less conveys the message that we'll continue to do what we've been doing and add to that list without any additional support. Prioritizing what we're doing with reference to what we've got conveys that we may stop doing some things that are unproductive and focus on only doing those things that are producing the results we want and that are inline with our mission.

Communication is one of a leaders greatest assets or weakest links. Don't convey the message of business as usual, only more of it due to tightened budgets. Convey a proactive message of prioritizing what your doing, keeping your activities inline with your mission, so that you can accomplish great things even in times of reduced funding opportunities.

It really is all in the message! Just something to think about today. Next time you start to revert to an old cliche, stop and ask yourself how you can reword the message and inspires others.

Lead Strong...

Shawn

Either move out of the way as a leader or surround yourself with those who can make things happen...

2011-03-21T10:32:00.000-05:00

Some more thoughts from Marcus Aurelius...

"Is my understanding sufficient for this or not? If it is sufficient, I use it for the work as an instrument given by the universal nature. But if it is not sufficient, then either I retire from the work and give way to him who is able to do it better, unless there be some reason why I ought not to do so; or I do it as well as I can, taking to help me the man who with the aid of my ruling principle can do what is now fit and useful for the general good. For whatsoever either by myself or with another I can do, ought to be directed to this only, to that which is useful and well suited to society."

"Be not ashamed to be helped; for it is thy business to do thy duty like a soldier in the assault on a town. How then, if being lame thou canst not mount up on the battlements alone, but with the help of another it is possible?"

Don't get caught up in the translation, what Marcus Aurelius is reminding us of as leaders is to know when it is our time to move on or vacate our position of leadership, or ask for help. When it is still within our ability to accomplish the things asked of us by all means we should do so. However, when I am no longer able to fulfill my duties I need to be honest with myself and others and either move on from that place of leadership, or if this is not an option I need to be smart enough to surround myself with people who can help accomplish those duties.

Now, I tend to believe that the latter is the best route. Leadership experience is too valuable to lose, especially when strong leaders can admit their weaknesses and have the ability to surround themselves with quality, qualified people who can make up for the leaders shortcomings. As a leader you simply cannot know everything there is to know about everything.

Unfortunately too many leaders live on past successes for so long that they really create their own oblivion which they fade away into. Success is fleeting and is not meant to create mantles on which we stand for the length of our careers. Successes are meant to propel us on the the next success. Hopefully, taking on new challenges and opportunities which require us to honestly evaluate ourselves, recognize our weaknesses, and surround ourselves with those who compensate for those weaknesses. And in turn we compensate for theirs as well. Sounds like team building, doesn't it?

Remember, as a leader you should not expect yourself, or be expected of by others, to know everything. Leadership is not about being omniscient, it is about building strong teams that together can accomplish what might otherwise be impossible for you alone.

So, as Marcus Aurelius reminds us; be honest with yourself. Move out of the way if it is time, or be strong enough to surround yourself with those who can make you stronger yet and who you can build up as well.

This may be especially true for those of us who are responsible for hiring new people, or who are thinking of re-entering the job market. Am I asking too much of those I am interviewing? Forsaking their incredible talents for the minute gifts they don't possess? When being interviewed myself, am I finding myself hanging on to past success for fear of admitting my lack of knowledge in certain areas of the job description? Rather, maybe I should point out my ability to admit weakness and surround myself with strong people or to be one of those strong people another leader can feel comfortable surrounding themselves with.

Just some more to think about.

Lead Strong...

Shawn

More from Marcus Aurelius

2011-03-14T11:14:00.000-05:00

"A man must stand erect (on his own) and not be held erect by others." ~Marcus Aurelius

Isn't it curious how a person can rise to fame or power with no regard for those who helped get him/her there, but if they fall from that position it is someone else fault?

If you achieve some place of honor or status on your own and subsequently fall from that position take the responsibility on yourself for such a fall. If you rose to that position with the help of others and subsequently fall, still take the responsibility upon yourself for such a fall. Our culture is one of self promotion and blame, rising to this or that position on our own merits but always removed due to the fault of others.

Our own sense of integrity and moral value are the aids which help us stand erect, not those of others. My position cannot be built on the integrity of others for surely then I am doomed to fall. But it is still not the fault of others that I should fall, it is rather still my own for building on the lives of others and not mine own.

Stand erect on your own. If a Christian, then you truly do have someone else who holds you erect, that of the person of Jesus Christ. However, if you are to fall, it is not Jesus Christ's fault, but still your own for straying from His person-hood being lived out within you that surely caused you to fall. So, take the responsibility for the fall on your self, much the same as you would if you built your position without him. The responsibility is still your own. Return to Him to provide the grace to restore you from your fall. Notice how different this is from those who do not have a relationship with Christ.

Build your own sense of integrity and moral value. Stand erect on those principles. Do not allow yourself to be caught away with the allure of others integrity and moral values for these are not your own. If you profess faith in Jesus Christ, build your life on His integrity and moral values (saving grace and person-hood), make His your own and then stand erect.

Ask yourself if you are standing erect on your own integrity or on the lives of others? Ask yourself who you blamed for your last fall?

Lead Strong...

Shawn

A life without focus...

2011-03-08T08:27:00.000-06:00

"The soul of man does violence to itself... when it allows any act of its own and any movement to be without an aim, and does anything thoughtlessly and without considering what it is, it being right that even the smallest things be done with reference to an end..." ~Marcus Aurelius

I am a lay student of philosophy and have recently started reading Meditations by Marcus Aurelius (mid to late 100's AD). Aurelius was a Roman soldier as well as philosopher and I am continually amazed at how closely philosophy of that time period reflects that of Christian thought. It is easy to see why Paul commented about people of his day being religious and debating his understanding of Christ with the worlds understanding of philosophical thought.

But Marcus Aurelius has a deep wisdom that we can learn from. Think about what he says as quoted above. A man does violence to his own soul when he lives without purpose and focus in life. To act thoughtlessly without considering our actions and how those actions affect the end is a travesty. A man does violence to his own soul. Wow, think about that for a moment. When we live and act without regard to purpose and relationships we are hurting ourselves, not to mention those we interact with.

Paul tells us to do everything, live and act, as if unto the Lord and to do so in a manner pleasing to the Lord. Paul really says to live lives of purpose and focus, thinking about how our lives affect others and to have an end in mind. Aurelius may have never been directly impacted by Paul's writings but he was clearly indirectly impacted by them.

What about you? Are you living a life of focus and purpose? Are you considering your life, your thoughts, your actions? Are you living with an end in mind? Are you living and acting in a way that is conscious of how your life affects the lives of others? To not do so is to bring violence on your own soul.

While Scripture is, and needs to be my foundation, I think it is beneficial to read the great works of other philosophers and see how their teachings so often align with our Biblical teachings. To read Marcus Aurelius is to read the thoughts of a man entrenched in society and desiring to make a difference. As Christians we find ourselves entrenched in society, but I often wonder if we have the same desire to make a difference?

Are you doing violence to your own soul by living a thoughtless life without purpose and focus. Have an aim (purpose, focus) in life and live and act toward that aim. For Christians, make Christ that aim.

Thinking philosophically,

Lead Strong,

Shawn

You never know who you'll meet...

2011-03-07T09:24:00.000-06:00

While out on a cold and windy ride yesterday, Sunday March 6, 2011 with Clark, a friend from church, we met a couple on vacation from Italy. Italy! We had ridden from Amarillo to a favorite lookout point in the canyons near Claude and were stretching our legs when this couple pulled up and started snapping pictures, lots of pictures! Believing that leadership = relationships + influence we struck up a conversation with them. It really didn't take long to deduct that they were neither American nor from Mexico (even though their speech was a mix of English and what I originally thought was Spanish) so the conversation quickly turned to their home country and what brought them to Texas of all places? They were on an extended 18 day vacation, originating in DFW and traveling throughout Texas into New Mexico and Colorado and eventually ending up in Las Vegas, NV. They simply had a map and had highlighted some areas of interest.

It was a neat experience for Clark and I to learn a little about their country (by the way, if I ever make it to Italy I now know I need to rent a motorcycle and tour the region near Tuscany) and to share places they needed to take in while making their way through this part of Texas. They especially thought it was cool that they had met some real life American bikers on their trip. Ha, I didn't have the heart to tell them that Clark is a home health care business owner and I'm a college administrator. They were too enthralled with taking pictures of us and our bikes (glad mine was clean).

You just never know who you'll meet on any given day. And to think, I was reluctant to go for a ride because it was a little cooler than I normally prefer (I'm a fair weather biker, ha) but I am glad that I went. I hope this young couple has a great time in America and I'm glad that God allowed me the opportunity to be apart of their trip in some small way.

Don't overlook the value of chance encounters. Paul tells us in Colossians to live a life worthy of the Lord. I think that means in word and deed. And whether or not meeting us yesterday did anything for this young couple from Italy, it made my day a little brighter.

Be on the lookout for who you might meet this week, you never know who God will place in your path.

Lead Strong...

Shawn

Propinquity

2011-03-03T09:09:00.000-06:00

Leadership can be a difficult practice because it revolves around relationships with people. Recently however I came across an interesting variable to this whole leadership equation that according to sociophysical theorists (yes, there really are sociophysical theorists out there, also in the study of sociopsychology) we tend to neglect, that of propinquity. Propinquity is the impact of space on relationships, as first theorized by psychologists Leon Festinger, Stanley Schachter, Kurt Lewin and Kurt Back.

As leaders facing human relationship dysfunction our first tendency is to attack the issue based on the personalities involved. Propinquity encourages us to consider the nearness, or proximity in space and its effect on relationships. I have to admit, I've read a lot of leadership and relationship material but have failed to come across this theory until now, and I am fascinated by it. It is more than just removing a person from an environment to solve a problem, it encourages leaders to look at how the actual environment may be affecting relationships.

While the original theorists really focused on the proximity of people, such as two people living on the same floor of a residence hall are in closer propinquity then two people living on different floors, modern theorists urge us to not only consider proximity but the environment itself. Such an example could be a relationship gone bad between co-workers A & B. The supervisor separates them, moving A to another office suite and putting someone else (C) in A's place with B. In time the relationship between B & C starts deteriorating. Natural deductive reasoning tells the supervisor that B must be the problem since A is now happy and productive and C has been negatively affected. So the supervisor naturally deals with B as the source of the dysfunction (which they could be). But propinquity would urge us as leaders to consider the less obvious. Is there something within the office suite itself that is causing the dysfunction between B & C and originally between A & B? Does the office suite have a window? Is there a ventilation problem? Is the office suite too small for multiple occupants? And on and on we could go, examining multiple unconsidered variables. Propinquity encourages the examination of the environment as a whole, not just the proximity of people in the environment, although that too must be examined.

All this to say that it is entirely too easy for leaders to take the most obvious, and usually the route of least resistance when fixing a problem. But how often does the problem re-emerge with a different set of players? Next time you find yourself in a situation where dysfunction is arising in a relationship, I encourage you to not only consider the people involved and their personalities, but also the propinquity. It could be the environment and not the people causing the dysfunction.

Just something to think about...

Lead Strong...

Shawn

Oh my...

2011-02-21T10:41:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it. In November I said I was going to do better about blogging and here it is February and I may actually be doing worse. Ugh! I'm actually jealous of my wife Rochelle who is so good about blogging (Random Thoughts) on a daily basis and sharing the growth and development of Jack. I think to myself, "I really need to get on that blog, but..." And, unfortunately that is where it stays, at the "but..." level.

I guess my real issue is whether or not I really have anything of value to say or if blogging is nothing more than a diary of sorts. Nothing wrong with a diary, I just don't want it to be that public. On the other hand, if someone were to think I actually had something of value to say then they may need a broader spectrum of relationships, ha.

Actually, the past several months have been an incredible learning opportunity for me. The State of Texas, reflective of the US Government, is in terrible financial shape. As such education is likely to take substantial financial hits over the next biennium, if not the next two bienniums. Last year, my first as an instructional dean, was tough. This next budget cycle is going to be even tougher. Hard decisions need to be made concerning programs and the people connected with those programs. While I embrace this as part of my responsibilities, it is not something I enter into lightly. I hope that I am bathing the process in prayer. In fact, for over a year now I have been clinging to what has become my life verse from Proverbs 24:3 - 4: "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge it is filled with pure and precious things." That has to apply to the totality of my life, personal and professional.

As a leader I need wisdom beyond my own. It amazes me that Solomon could have had anything he wanted from the Lord and he asked for wisdom. He understood that wisdom was the path to filling your home (life as a whole) with pure and precious things, when applied with godly knowledge. Wisdom, when bathed in understanding of people and circumstances, and then applied with newly formed godly knowledge aids a leader in making decisions. I did not say it made the decisions any easier. In fact, it can make the decisions tougher at times because the Holy Spirit gives insight that might not have been available prior.

My daily prayer continues to be for God to instill within me wisdom that is His and not mine. But I also pray that He gives me understanding into peoples lives and the circumstances those people find themselves in, understanding of personal motivations and desires, and an understanding of how my decisions will impact others, both directly and indirectly. Then I pray for knowledge. Knowledge in applying this wisdom based on new levels of understanding.

All that to say that leadership is not for the faint of heart. While I still adhere to the concept that all of us are leaders I have come to understand that I need understanding of myself and others concerning what level of leadership we should be at within an institution. When people come to me and say they are interested in this or that position of leadership, I always caution them to pray for God to give them some insight and understanding of the position they seek. Proverbs 24:3 - 4 is a wonderful prayer for all levels of leadership. I challenge you to apply these verses on a daily basis and see what God may reveal in your quest to develop yourself as a leader.

Just musing today, Lead Strong!

Shawn

Never underestimate the power of relationships

2010-11-05T08:15:00.004-05:00

The more I read the more I realize that there really is nothing new being said about good leadership. Sure, we repackage it and give it new stories. We exemplify new models to pattern ourselves after, and we love to tell stories of success. But at the end of the day, leadership, at least to me, still boils down to relationships.

Now don't get me wrong, I've said it before and I'll continue to say it. Relationships are difficult, time consuming, and fragile. They take effort and hard work, time that many leaders just are not willing to invest. However, I would still advocate that for long term success there is no other way.

Here's an example. First a disclaimer, this is not a political leaning one way or the other, just an observation. Not long ago our president built a platform of change and hope. A platform that grabbed the American people, especially young people. He, in a sense, built a relationship with people that most felt was genuine. And the powerful thing was that his relationship seemed to transcend the presidency and cross over to congress and the senate. What happened? In this weeks election the American people, although fickle, lost faith in the relationship that had been built and in large numbers went back to previous relationships on the other side of the political spectrum. In my estimation, that was a quick reversal. Yes, America has seen some tough times. And let's be honest, regardless of who is and has been in office, things were doomed to be difficult. However, America has seen other tough times. What's the difference, relationships. Whether realistic or practical, the president's campaign looked different than his practice while in office, and that has rubbed off on his political party (again, I am not a poly-sci professor, just an average American voter with a vested interest in our country). The relationship simply was replaced by the urgency of business.

That's an extreme example, but I think it speaks to the power of staying connected to those who support you and in a sense got you where you are. In reality, there is no way the president could lead the way he campaigned, and Americans should have never expected that. But we do. However, most of us can lead with relationships in tact. My world of relationships and responsibility is not millions of people, let alone global in scope, but it is equally as important and fragile. People are expecting that the relationship I had with them yesterday is the same relationship I will have with them today and tomorrow. And, if that relationship has been damaged, it is my responsibility to work damage control and try to re-establish that relationship.

I'll say it again, leading through relationships is tough. But the rewards, personal and professional, far outweigh the effort. It is through our of relationships that we both influence and are influenced. And when influence through positive relationships begins to take place the possibilities for everyone involved are endless.

Something to think about...

Lead Strong,

Shawn

"For Such A Time As This"

2010-10-11T08:08:00.003-05:00

"...And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"

Over the weekend we went to OKC to visit Megan and Cori. Yesterday we went with them to church at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene where pastor David Busik was finishing a sermon series on great stories from the Bible. His message was from the book of Esther and by his own admission was a story that most of us knew from childhood Sunday School lessons. But then God stepped in and made the old new again, and the story as told by a master story teller became relevant for all of us in the sanctuary.

I won't spend time telling the story here, although I do encourage you to go and read it again, for the first time. However, the gist of the story is that God had placed a young lady in just the right place at just the right time. Although the circumstances were difficult, difficult to the point of potential death, and she was the least likely of heroes, she was reminded by her guardian Mordecai that "who knows but that you have come to this place (royal position) for such a time as this."

That's a powerful statement, one that has had my attention since Pastor Busik read it aloud. The end of the story finds Esther bringing justice to an unjust situation and lifting others, Mordecai and the Jewish people, to a place of security and peace. Without her intervention, Mordecai and all the Jews in that region, including Esther, would have surely perished. Now, make no mistake, this was no easy task and meant getting involved in a situation that was horribly fearful, and rightly so. But through prayer Esther believed Mordecai was right and that God had indeed placed her in that very position at that very moment, for "such a time as this."

I don't know where you're at in life. I don't know if the waters you're traveling are rough, or if the sea is smooth right now. But I do agree with Pastor Busik in that each of us has, is, or will face "such a time as this," some of us many times over. Could it be that we need to stop for a moment and reflect on the circumstances of life and ask if God has indeed placed me in this position "for such a time as this?"

We tend to want to run, leave it up to someone else, ignore it, or complain, none of which honors God. Mordecai's challenge to Esther may be God's challenge to us. You're time in that circumstance may be short or many years in developing, but to know that God has entrusted you with "such a time as this" is an overwhelming feeling.

I've been praying about my own life since yesterday morning and wondering about "such a time as this." What are you doing with the time you've been given. As Gandolf said in Lord of the Rings, "it is not up to us to decide the time, but to decide what to do with the time we've been given." Sounds to me like J.R.R. Tolkien had read the book of Esther.

What are you going to do with "such a time as this?"

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Catching Up...

2010-05-21T08:25:00.002-05:00

Ok, first off, you know you're not very good at blogging when you have to reset your password every time to even get into your own blog! But, I'm in and I've written my new password down somewhere, I just hope I can remember where for the next time I feel inspired, lol.

Life is busy but I wanted to play a little catch up:

First off, the new job (5 months old now) is great, love coming to work every day!

Rochelle is starting a new job next week. She is working under a grant through University of Texas (that is killing me as a Texas Tech Red Raider) at Amarillo College. She will work with AC students enrolled in Early Childhood and who currently work in the day care industry. She serves as a tutor to help these students graduate and learn to teach. She is so excited and she'll be off the road! Praise God!!

All the kids are doing great. Cori is actively looking for a teaching job in the OKC area but still working at Le Petite. She is learning much that will aid her as a classroom teacher someday. Megan leaves Monday to work summer youth camp in OK. She's excited and I'm proud of her for giving of herself all summer. Emily finishes school next week and will be a senior, wow! Jack is growing like a weed and doing so many fun things.

This month has also had its challenges. Rochelle was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and will have surgery to remove her thyroid June 1. God has been so good though, our family doctor has been so great and we love the surgeon! Even with Rochelle switching jobs we will only need to carry COBRA for 1-2 months and her new insurance will pick up July 1, so God has been faithful. We are surrounded by wonderful family, great friends, and a wonderful church. Besides, you can't keep Rochelle down and she is too excited about her new job to let this set her back. Out mantra, I have cancer but cancer doesn't have me! We love that TV campaign and know that with a positive-fighting attitude and God's healing power this is "just a thing."

At first glance a casual reader might wonder what any of that has to do with leadership. I contend it has everything to do with leadership. Leadership starts within, stays close to family and extends to career and beyond. With life's daily ups and downs, sometimes all at the same time, leadership is essential. It is a positive leadership philosophy that helps keep me grounded on a firm foundation. Granted, I believe my leadership philosophy is also my life philosophy, which is grounded in faith, but it helps me so much. If you have taken the time to write down a well thought out - prayed out life/leadership philosophy I encourage you to do so. It is the first step in developing your leadership capacity.

This whole blogging thing is therapeutic, but also amazingly beneficial for me as a reflection tool (which if you've read my leadership philosophy you know is an element of it). And fun things happen too. Pearson Publishers is using one of my blog posts (the basic premise of this blog: Leadership = Relationships + Influence) in an upcoming text book. I'm honored, but what I know about leadership I owe to so many others. I have never said anything new, I only hope that I keep finding ways to say truth in ways that connects with people.

Any way, enough rambling. I hope I'm catching up on news now. Thanks in advance for your prayers for Rochelle!

Lead Strong....

Shawn

Irregularity

2010-03-15T10:26:00.002-05:00

I wonder if there is a laxative for blog posting irregularity? Oh, I know that's gross, get over it. Looking back at my posts it seems that I have a monthly blogging syndrome; posting on a monthly basis whether I need to or not. It's not that I'm not interested, it's more that I am having to choose what gets my attention. Work is great, but the new position is crazy busy. I actually didn't know you could cram so many meetings into one day. And because I have responsibility on two different campuses and most meetings seem to be scheduled on the Washington St. campus I find myself in transit a lot. Rochelle is still traveling quite a bit (that is actually an understatement, she's been traveling a lot lately) so once I get home with Jack I don't really want to post a blog. I just want to hang out with him, get him ready for bed, and by then go to bed myself. Add in wanting to spend time with Emily, keep up with Cori and Megan in OKC, church, etc. and the days get real short - real fast. No complaints, just causing me to prioritize and choose more wisely. Unfortunately, blogging has not made the top ten yet.

But as I write this blog post it strikes me that I am practicing good leadership. I am choosing the most important things to do and having to let other things go. I wonder what else I could let go of? I know the cell phone thing looks like an earring lately. But, it is an iPhone and has saved my professional life in past few months (thanks Rochelle for convincing me to get this thing). But what else could go? Hmmm, am I, are you, doing things that we've always done but we really can't explain why we do them? Choosing the most important, delegating what we can, and just plain letting go of other things. That really is good leadership.

I need to tell you, letting go of things can be painful. Maybe more so for those of us who are a little driven. And there are still times that I sense a little guilt for not doing all that I used to to do or think that only I can do. But I am so much more productive and useful by letting go of things. I have realized that I am surrounded by great people. I have two highly competent division chairs that run their divisions well. We have awesome instructors and support staff and things run well. The college is run by a great president and cabinet, and my personal support staff is awesome. Not to mention my incredible wife, kids, church, and friends. All these things make letting go easier, and I actually find that I have more time to invest in the lives of others.

Come to think of it, if you have a blog post laxative keep it. If I only get to the blog once a month then that it good enough for me. Choosing the more important things is just good leadership and working well for me. As I continue on this journey and develop more and more of a routine (like that's really going to happen) I'll post more. But until then it's the monthly blogging syndrome for me. And I'm okay with that.

Lead Strong (and choose wisely what you invest your time in),

Shawn

New Challenges - New Opportunities

2010-02-05T16:17:00.002-06:00

Wow, I always have the best intentions to post more frequently, but life seems to interfere. These past few weeks especially have been a whirlwind professionally. I have recently been appointed as Dean of Career and Technical Education for Amarillo College. It is a new position that incorporates our East Campus ITT programs and our Business Division. I am thrilled and honored to have been appointed to this new position and anxious to get an office established and start gaining traction. I have wonderful faculty and staff within CTE and a great Administrative Assistant in Kathy Wheeler who brings experience and length of service with AC to her new role.

I promise to try and do better with the posts. I am seeking God's wisdom for leadership ability and hanging on to Proverbs 3:3 as a source of guidance "Do not let truth and kindness leave you. Bind them around your neck. Write tham on the tablet of your heart." What great leadership advice for all of us.

Lead Strong...

Shawn

“Leadership Courage” by David Cottrell and Eric Harvey

2009-12-01T09:05:00.002-06:00

The following excerpt from the book “Leadership Courage” by David Cottrell and Eric Harvey has been passed along by Jackie Marcum. It'll make you want to go buy the book and read it. It's now on my reading list. Enjoy...

A common requirement of leaders at all levels is having the courage to make tough decisions and take difficult actions. Courage is frequently discussed in meetings, rated in performance appraisals, and listened for in promotion interviews. Almost all would agree that it’s an important element of successful leadership. Yet, becoming a courageous leader involves a lot more than talking, rating, and correctly answering interview questions. The dictionary definition of courage is “the state or quality of mind and spirit that enables one to face danger or fear with confidence and resolution; bravery; valor.” But what does all that mean in the business world? How can it be measured and quantified?

Perhaps the best way to understand courage is to define its opposite state. Some would say the antithesis of courage is “cowardliness” … avoiding (or succumbing to) pressure, difficulty, and danger. Others would say “fear” … being afraid to do the right thing when the going gets tough. Certainly, both of those answers are logical and appropriate. But there’s another description of the opposite of courage – one not as commonly thought of, although equally valid. That description is “conformity” … letting things be the way they have always been because of the high price associated with changing them.

As a leader, you need courage to do what needs to be done … to do what you know is the right thing. There will always be those who tell you you’re wrong – even when you’re thoroughly convinced that you’re right. There will always be some tempting you to take an easier and less resistant path. And, there will always be those who – either unintentionally or purposefully – create obstacles that will challenge your mettle. Even the very best leaders must regularly pass the courage test. Courage is about having the guts, nerve, and heart to do things that foster and support progress. And that begins with the realization that:
1) improvement won’t be found on the path of least resistance known as conformity, and
2) status quo is the archenemy of progress.
When you think about it, “doing things the way we’ve always done them” requires no leadership at all. What is there to lead to? How can others follow someone who’s not going anywhere? That’s why “leadership” and “courage” must be viewed as synonymous concepts.

To become a courageous leader, you must have an undeniable, indisputable, unwavering commitment to be the best you can be. The true measure of your leadership is the ability to look in the mirror and know that you had the courage to do what you felt was the right thing to do. The people you lead are counting on you. Don’t let them down.

For every person in every organization, there comes a moment when he or she must have the courage to step forward and meet the needs of the time. Regardless of whether your moment is now or sometime in the future, you must be ready.

Jack's Baby Dedication

2009-11-30T09:30:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we celebrated God's gift of life by having Jack dedicated at church. It was a fantastic morning for Rochelle and I, along with Cori, Megan, Emily, Mema, Grandpa and Grandma Tregellas, and members of our Life Group at FNC. A special gift came from a great friend. Jimmy Rifenberg wrote and sang a song for the special day which can be seen and heard on Rochelle's blog http://rochellefouts.blogspot.com (I know, I know, but I couldn't figure out how to get it to my blog). Jimmy is truly gifted of God as you'll be able to tell once you view the video.

Our pastor and friend John Donnerberg challenged us as parents to raise Jack up in the knowledge and admonition of the Lord and then charged our family, friends, and church to assist us with his nurture. It is great to be a part of a wonderful church family, and to have the support of our family.

To be given the gift of parenthood is an awesome blessing and responsibility. My faith and reliance upon God grows everyday as I watch 3 beautiful daughters take their individual places among their peers. Now it is time to raise Jack to take his place and help lead others as well. My daily prayer is that God would enable me to be the husband Rochelle needs each day and the father Cori, Megan, Emily, and Jack need during each phase of their life journey as well. As parents, may you share a similar prayer.

Lead Strong, your family needs you (and so does mine).

Shawn

Choosing the "BEST" Pathway for Your Life

2009-11-19T09:20:00.002-06:00

Where has the time gone?? Jack is 10 weeks old as of yesterday and I don't think I've even thought about this blog during that time. But here I am.

Last night at church during our prayer service I was reading through the Psalms and came across a verse that must have meant something to me at one time or another because it was highlighted in my Bible. As I re-read it the verse came back alive for me all over again. Psalm 32:8 says, "I (the Lord) will lead you down life's BEST pathway. I will guide you and watch out for you." Wow! What a powerful verse of scripture. If you're anything like me you've tried to force a lot of things into place at one time or another during your life. Or maybe, like me, you have chosen some things that you just knew we're ordained of God somehow. But I am so glad that when we are in relationship with God, and that is the key - a relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ-that He wants to lead us down the BEST pathway for our life. Not just any pathway, or an easy fix pathway, or a well paying pathway, but the BEST possible pathway imaginable for our lives. That's totally amazing to think about!

But I think that goes farther than just us when we strive to be leaders. Remember, Leadership = Relationships + Influence. Just as I am in relationship with God and He leads me down the best pathway for my life, as I am in relationship with others I also need to help influence them to choose the best pathway for their lives. That's an incredible responsibility and privilege.

Who in your life today could use a little godly influence to help them choose the best pathway for their life? Build those relationships every day and influence them. In so doing your leadership equation comes to life and grows exponentially.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Leadership 1 Corinthians 10:31 Way

2009-10-21T16:38:00.002-05:00

Amarillo College is offering a 9 month Ethical Leadership Institute bringing together some of the best local authorities on the subject in the Texas Panhandle. This morning we invited 3 respected leaders in our community to come and speak as a panel on Ethics in Leadership. The 3 were comprised of a sheriff, an attorney, and a professor. Without fail each referenced their faith in helping to form their ethics and the sheriff told the class of 31 that at each staff meeting he tries to influence his department to practice ethical leadership by practicing 1 Corinthians 10:31: "...whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." How amazing and bold that a sheriff would not only believe and practice this Biblical principle, but that he would encourage his department to do the same. Leadership really is that simple, that profound, and that powerful. Simply, do what is right and do what is right all the time.

Lead Strong,

Shawn

Life with a newborn!!

2009-09-18T10:43:00.002-05:00

On September 9th, 2009 at 6:18 PM (18:18 military time; notice all the 9's in this?) life as Rochelle and I know it all changed. Hmm, life as Rochelle and I as well as Cori, Megan, Emily, and everyone in our daily sphere of relationships changed as we know it. Even Coal Miner, our dog, life changed. Jackson Cooper changed our world's forever, and non of us would have it any other way. And with Jack's entrance into our world and our lives new responsibilities immediately entered our world as well, responsibilities that I take very seriously as a new (old) father.

As I have watched 3 beautiful daughters develop into reflections of God and impact their worlds, now I have a tremendous opportunity to help Jack develop into a reflection of God to his world. My timeless advice to the girls "don't grow up to be stupid" has worked so far and I hope to pass that same advice on to their little brother. But more importantly I hope to pass on to Jack to "love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength" as well. As I hope that I helped the girls to understand what it is to be a daughter of God and what to look for in a real man, now I hope to teach Jack what a real man is, versus what society has made men out to be.

It has always been a goal as a father to not only teach but to model the way. Not that I am finished with Cori, Megan, and Emily by any means. But now I have another opportunity to improve as I do the same for Jack. As a student of leadership, I am convinced that the greatest lab for leadership development is in our own homes. And while Jack is not a specimen to be experimented on, he is my son with whom to pass on my values, believes, and passions as he develops his own.

Ok Jack, I'm ready if you are. With your mom and sisters by my side we welcome you into as non-normal a family as you'll find, but a family that welcomes God's gift of new life into it with as much joy and love as anyone can imagine.

Lead Strong...

Shawn