tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29339295042886141082024-03-13T05:28:44.355-07:00Creative Drop BoxMy thoughts on design, music, leadership and life.Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-67449519185948852542011-02-28T12:20:00.000-08:002011-02-28T12:27:48.169-08:00Notes From Darlene Zschech<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">This weekend we hosted Dalrene Zschech and the Hillsong team. This morning we had a small workshop with them and there were so many nuggets deposited that I had to post it for everyone. She was talking about music in the church, but really it transcends beyond that to all areas of ministry. They are brief points, but not much needs to be added to these simple truths and reminders.</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Don’t give up and never settle for anything less than what God has called you to do.</span></span></span></div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Worship leaders/ Pastors take what you do seriously.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• The worship of God isn’t a job, it’s holy so be planted where you are called.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Arrest the atmosphere and declare God’s presence in your services.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• People chase the dramatic of God’s presence, but he’s in the simple and little things of life. To often we make God’s presence about the wrong things.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• What you do or don’t feel really doesn’t matter when it comes to experiencing God’s presence. Our feelings lie to us, He’s there in the moments of quiet, peace or the magnificent obvious moments.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Expectation is the breeding ground for the miraculous.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• You could be just one decision from stepping into what God has purposed for you to do.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>3 POINTS:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;"> 1. BE AWARE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD</span></b> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">– You become less aware when you are too self-aware.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Familiarity breeds complacency</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Combat familiarity with staying prayerful</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• You don’t have the right to make demands – serve</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">2. HIS PRESENCE CARRIES A FRAGRANCE</span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• There’s incredible musicians all over the world but the church should look different because of the presence of God. The musicianship can be amazing, but it’s God’s presence that will be the difference maker.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• The fragrance will sound like songs of hope and thanksgiving</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• Excellence is important, but don’t be excellent for music sake, be excellent for message sake. Creating and environment that doesn’t distract, but easily leads people to Jesus.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">3. HIS PRESENCE IS GREAT POWER</span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• His power brings purpose</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">• it’s good to remember your life without Christ so you can reflect on His goodness, faithfulness and all He’s taken you from.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-family:Arial"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-77078112304980193752011-01-03T04:52:00.000-08:002011-01-03T05:44:34.899-08:00We All Have Something<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.</span></span></span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">Proverbs 11:24-25</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Growing up I was always shown by my parents what it is to be a generous person and I've tried to continue that in my life in every area. There have been times I've had more to give, and there's times I may have less but I've always have something to give. I believe we all have something to give no matter how much or how little we posses. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There's a few ways to be generous that I've been shown and try to practice in my life: </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">BE GENEROUS WITH...</span> </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">YOUR GOALS</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;"> -</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">last year I started making 3 lists of goals. I used to only make 2 lists which consisted of personal, and spiritual goals. Now my list is: what are my goals for my personal life, spiritual life and what goals of others do I want to help make happen. Even within personal goals I try to center them around the betterment of others. Even losing weight has others in mind. A healthier you makes for a better husband or wife, leader, parent and friend. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">YOUR COMPASSION</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;"> -</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">see beyond your hurt, your problems and yourself. See the needs and hurts of the world around you and do something about them. It could be as simple as taking time to grab coffee with someone going through a hard time and just listening to them. Being generous with your time will mean sacrificing some of the things you may want to do, or at least putting them off for a day or two.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">YOUR WORDS</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;"> -</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">This is huge! Be generous with your words. Don't assume people know you appreciate them. Don't assume your son knows you think he's talented and gifted. Don't assume your spouse knows what you love about them. Don't assume your family knows you value them. Don't assume, and don't get so comfortable that you take even a day for granted with those in your life. The only thing safe to assume is that someone doesn't know how you feel. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There's so many more ways to be generous. I do believe in being generous in our giving financially, or in our time and resources, but sometimes it's these 3 simple things that make as much difference as a meal or large check would make. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><b>Make it a generous year. </b></span></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-44997385804524450832011-01-02T09:24:00.000-08:002011-01-02T09:34:53.454-08:00The Sky Was The Limit<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">“</span></span></span></b><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/this_is_the_very_perfection_of_a_man-to_find_out/220222.html" style="text-decoration: none; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">This is the very perfection of a man, to find out his own imperfections.</span></span></span></b></a><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">” - St. Augustine</span></span></span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">As I head into a new year I'm more determined than ever to really chase after all that God has put in my heart. As I go after all the dreams and desires that I have I know there's really only one thing that can get in the way. ME. I love the quote above from St. Augustine, and how that reminds me that each of us have limitations. It's our personal limitations, or imperfections, that will be the only thing keeping us from doing what we're made to do. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">I feel it's important to recognize the imperfections and limitations so I can take the necessary actions to overcome them. Sometimes it will take accountability with others to over come our limitations. Sometimes it may require us to adjust and realign our focus and goals in order to beat the limitations. No matter what limitations we have, the worst thing we can do is let that limit us from achieving the goals and desires that God has put in our hearts. Make this a year where the sky – was the limit. </span></span></span></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-41157401839695128682010-12-14T15:12:00.001-08:002010-12-14T15:33:04.721-08:00Does Size Matter<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">It's easy in life to compare. In life we compare the size of house we have, the car we drive or the success of our professional life. It's easy to do this in ministry too. There's publications celebrating the sizes of churches, or the percentage of growth in churches each year. All of these numbers are important because each number represents a person, but is that all that matters?</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">I was talking with my sister-in-law and I was reminded of the true measure of success. She grew up in small youth group of only a dozen or so and we were talking about what some of them are doing now. She happens to be on staff at Lakewood Church, loves God and has been serving Him for all of her life. Someone else from that youth group is in a very well-known Christian band. What was interesting is that of her small youth group each one of them are still living for Christ. That youth pastor could have said it's only a dozen students so I won't put as much into this, but instead he was a vital part of helping form Biblical foundations that would last a lifetime for those students. As a result some of those students have been given opportunities to be a great influence to thousands more than the youth pastor was. This reminded me of a few simple truths:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">1) Treat a dozen as if it's a thousand and give everything all you have – ALWAYS. No matter what we at least have an audience of one. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">2) Our goal should be to raise up others to do far more than we ever will. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">3) Your impact doesn't limit your influence. You may have a small church, but the impact made in one life could result in that one impacting thousands around the world. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: arial;">God calls some to lead large churches and he calls others to lead small churches. No matter what church size, He calls every leader to be a good steward of that which you've been entrusted with. So size doesn't matter, but what you do with what He's given you does. </span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-54029622979030081462010-11-30T09:08:00.000-08:002010-11-30T09:34:16.861-08:00Don't Look Now<span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Has anyone ever said, "don't look now"? What's your first response? Maybe you have more self control than I do, but my first response is always to look. Even though I was told not to, I still do it instinctively. I find it interesting that my instincts cause me to go against the grain and defy the request not to look. On the other hand, there have been times I really should have waited to look.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This response got me thinking about the way we make decisions. I believe that each of us has a risk taker in us and this response to "don't look now" is a healthy behavior in decision making. The response that looks is the one that overcomes obstacles, that embarks on new territory and produces results you've otherwise thought not possible. On the other hand, there's something to say about the warning we're given when told "don't look now". In our decision making there's also times to wait. We'll still see the same thing we've been waiting to see, but we need to go towards it with patience. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Some things that help me decide if I should go for it or wait are:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">PEOPLE | </span> it's always good to bounce big ideas off of people close enough in your life to not just tell you what you want to hear. Be careful though to not give ear to those who are always negative about your dreams. John Maxwell says there are "fire starters", and "fire extinguishers" in our lives. Negativity kills. Someone can help you see the negative side and still encourage you without being negative.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">PRAYER | </span> My pastor, Kerry Shook always says "lead from your knees". Every day decisions, great or small, should be given prayerful consideration. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">INSTINCTS | </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>I believe in following instincts. If at the end of the day you've talked to people, prayed about it and still don't know for sure – just go with your first instincts. The best, not the worst, thing that can happen is you'll learn from trying.</span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-15355482879388872472010-10-01T04:10:00.000-07:002010-10-01T04:56:20.833-07:00Understanding and Less Demanding<span style="font-family:georgia,bookman old style,palatino linotype,book antiqua,palatino,trebuchet ms,helvetica,garamond,sans-serif,arial,verdana,avante garde,century gothic,comic sans ms,times,times new roman,serif;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" >When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. ~Victor Frankl</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" >In relationships with our bosses, in dating, friendships or marriage it can be easy to see what the other person isn't. We spend so much of our effort seeing what they're not and trying to change them which leaves us frustrated. This same frustration happens when things aren't working out in our jobs or dreams we're pursuing. When things don't work out it's easy to blame someone else, blame circumstances and point the finger but rarely do we take time to see these frustrations as opportunities to challenge ourselves. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" >My dad has constantly reminded me that when I go to work for someone I'm not there to change them. It's a simple truth that has been so liberating. It's liberating to know that I don't need to put my effort into changing my boss, or other relationships but instead my focus can be spent on how do I better serve them. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I DON'T TRY TO CHANGE SOMEONE ELSE:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 255, 255);">• IT LETS GO OF FALSE EXPECTATIONS</span> - you can't expect someone to be what they are not. Accept who they are and find ways to embrace them, serve them and love them.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 255, 255);">• IT MAKES YOU BETTER</span> - when you spend time serving and not changing you become more understanding and less demanding in that relationship. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">• IT KEEPS YOU STRONG</span> - Saver your energy and effort for what you can change, not what you can't. There's nothing more draining than when you spend all your effort being frustrated with others and it keeps your from focusing on what you need to focus on.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">• IT KEEPS BITTERNESS AWAY</span> - probably the most important thing is it keeps bitterness and resentment from setting in. Proverbs 4:23 says, Above all else guard your heart. We'll lose passion, purpose for others and our dreams once bitterness sets in. Bitterness closes your heart. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This has been something I'm having to remember and practice daily because I'm yet to work for someone perfect, be in relationship with someone perfect or see everything fall into place everyday perfect.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><br /></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-12375916196177548582010-08-26T10:16:00.000-07:002010-08-26T10:44:09.702-07:00Better Together<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">I spent some time this morning talking to an amazing artist from Crosspoint.tv, Stephen Brewster. The guy has a ton of passion and some great insights and a really refreshing perspective on the church, design, worship and over all experience. There were a lot of things I walked away with, but I thought I share one thought.<br /></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">There's a phrase I've been dropping around here a lot this year and that is we are "better together". After talking to Stephen I couldn't help but think of how incredibly large the churches impact would be if we operated with that mentality. Pastors, designers or songwriters – it doesn't matter, we were all created to create, but what we create only gains value when we share it. Stephen says it best, "we don't lose our value in sharing creativity – the value is found when it's shared." </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">If you're organization, or church is doing something effective share the idea. If you're a designer, or your in marketing and you've found an effective way to communicate a message – share it. The trick then is for those who want to utilize the idea need to realize that it still has to be shaped uniquely for you, your community or organization. Sharing won't create copycats, it will only make for more efficient methods and strategies as they are shaped uniquely for each situation and individual church.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Check out the Crosspoint staff and church. They are doing amazing things under the leadership of Pete Wilson. I've listed a few ways for you to find and connect to the team there.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Pete Wilson - on twitter @pwilson | www.withoutwax.tv</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Stephen Brewster - on twitter @b_rewster | www.stephenbrewster.me</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Justin Davis - on twitter @justindavis33 | http://refineus.org</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Jenni Catron - on twitter @jennicatron | www.jennicatron.tv</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-18814224709500820912010-08-23T05:38:00.000-07:002010-08-23T05:49:26.381-07:00Heart or Habit<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">We've all heard people say "that's just the way we do it." If you're like me you can't stand that phrase and you're always trying to push the envelope and go beyond what has always been done. But when it comes to my own life I had to make sure I had the same drive. Do I accept this is what I've always done so I'll stick with what works? I just wonder sometimes if complacency sets in and we begin to do what we do out of habit and less out of heart?</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">I like this verse found in Romans 12:11-</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. What really stood out to me is the words never be lacking in passion. Passion is fueled by heart and not habit. Passion is what keeps us looking at situations and challenges with a solution mindset. I guess the challenge for me is am I doing my relationships, my job and my life out of habit or out of heart? With heart comes passion with habit, complacency. </span></span></span></span></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-72084881042602859432010-08-21T21:51:00.000-07:002010-08-21T22:07:56.613-07:00The Common Denominator<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What do success and failure have in common? CONSISTENCY. As I observe the successes and failures in my life, in relationships around me and in organizations and businesses I can always trace it back to one thing. CONSISTENCY. I either make consistent right choices that lead to success, or I make consistent wrong decisions that lead to failure.</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is nothing new, but sometimes forgotten. I don't think people expect perfection from us, our organizations or relationships, but I do believe they expect consistency. For relationships that may mean one thing, and for businesses another but in the end the consistency is crucial in our lives and organizations. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To be consistent it doesn't mean you don't change. The consistencies should be your core, but the methods in relationships and organizations should evolve to see maximum results. What are your core values, principles or standards? Are you staying consistent with them and evolving the way you execute them? </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I'd love to hear any thoughts on this.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-54561424258695004282010-07-11T06:21:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:39:18.708-07:00Roads In The Desert<span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Our memories are powerful, precious and potentially dangerous. All the good memories of my family are what make me love them so much, and even anticipate the next time we're all able to be together. At the same time, the bad memories have the potential to cause me to build up walls of bitterness, hurt and resentment. As I've been thinking a lot about what keeps me or others from moving forward in life I am continually seeing the power of our past. </span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I would say that I'm definitely someone who doesn't live in the past. You can do me wrong, and the next day I'm ready to be friends again. But, every so often I've found myself saying I can or can't do something because of what has happened in my life. If we're not careful we can live defined by our past. Maybe who God has designed me to be hasn't always lined up with my character, but there's hope in realizing that no matter what that doesn't disqualify me. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I like what it says in Isaiah 43:18-19 </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><i></i></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">The L</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">ORD</span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> said:</span></span></span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">18</span></span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Forget what happened long ago! Don't think about the past. </span></span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">19</span></span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I am creating something new. There it is! Do you see it? </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"> I have put roads in deserts, streams in thirsty lands. </span></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Our past often leaves us feeling like we've destroyed what was supposed to be. It leaves us feeling sometimes like we will now have to settle when it comes to our dreams, our relationships and our purpose. But I love what this verse says, and I believe all of those things in our life that seem dead and destroyed from our past decisions, can be made new again. </span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Your past is not your qualifier, or determiner... God is. </span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-family:Times;"><br /></span></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-43273773651013421842010-06-10T08:14:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:40:10.301-07:00Don't Fear Failure<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In the past year or so I've really felt challenged on many levels, but I've felt so fulfilled at the same time. It made me start to think about what has been rewarding in the midst of the challenges I've faced. As I thought about it, I realized I haven't feared failure. I've stepped into things professionally and personally knowing all I can do is give it my best and learn from the mistakes along the way. </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of my favorite quotes is from C.S. Lewis where he says, "</span></span></span><span class="body"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Failures are finger posts on the road to achievement."</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I will say not fearing failure isn't easy, but one thing that has made it easier has been to work for leaders who believe in me and allow me to grow and make mistakes. It's made me realize that as a leader I hope to always create an environment that allows mistakes and learning from those mistakes.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A few thoughts on what happens when we fear failure:</span></span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1. we stay comfortable</span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">2. we stop growing</span></span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">3. we limit ourselves </span></span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I will always set out to succeed, but I will embrace the opportunity to learn from my mistakes along the way so I can be even more successful the next time around. </span></span></span></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-57676397925226168272010-03-24T06:05:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:40:44.661-07:00Better To have and lost, than not have had at all<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's a note from my brother as we had to say goodbye to my niece just 20 days after she was born. She's with Jesus now, but missed by her Uncle J a ton already. She held a special place in all of our hearts before she was even born and will always.<br /><br /></span></span></span><h3 class="GenericStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}"><input id="post_form_id" name="post_form_id" value="3d45f37e949c7c65a4b99c9399f932e6" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"></h3><div class="note_header"><div class="note_title_share clearfix"><div class="note_title"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Rori Christianne Keller</span></span></span></span></div> <div class="share_and_hide clearfix"><a class="share share_a" title="Send this to friends or post it on your profile." href="http://www.facebook.com/ajax/share_dialog.php?s=4&appid=2347471856&p%5B%5D=637812888&p%5B%5D=108373172514583" rel="dialog"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></a></div></div><div class="byline"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Yesterday at 7:57pm</span></span></span></div></div> <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> As many of you may recall, at the birth of our daughter Michela, she introduced herself to the world via an e-mail message. My intention was to have her introduce her sister to the world in this e-mail. Unfortunately, this announcement doesn't carry the same joy and excitement.<br /><br />This morning, March 22, at 12:30am, Rori Christianne peacefully passed away in her sleep. Since many did not get a chance to share in the life of Rori, I want to give you an opportunity to share a piece of the joy and journey we experienced.<br /><br />Our story really began on January 26. Our doctor had some concerns that Rori was underweight. We had a few procedures done to find out what might be causing the problem and Rori was diagnosed with Trisomy 18. This is chromosomal defect where there is the presence of 3 copies of chromosome 18 instead of 2 in each cell. Although this is a very common chromosomal defect, most babies miscarry in the 1st or 2nd trimester and the children that deliver unfortunately have a very low survival rate past the age of 1. Upon this diagnosis, the doctors gave us the option and encouraged us to have her delivered right away if we wanted to see her alive and maybe in their mind since there wasn't a medical reason that she would live. Despite that report, our choice was clear, we would give Rori a chance at life and let her go full-term and if we were so blessed to have a miracle, then she would need our strength, faith and love.<br /><br />On March 2, at 7:42am, Rori Christianne graced us with her beautiful cry. She was a lean 4 pounds 8 ounces and 17.25 inches long, we had been blessed with the gift of life. She had amazingly gained over a 1.5 pounds in the last 5 weeks by us choosing to have her go full-term and getting her to a healthier weight. There were certainly a few moments early on that were scary as parents, but Rori continued to fight and show her heart of a champion. We were so blessed to bring her home with us on March 7. She needed the aid of a little bit of oxygen and still had a feeding tube in her nose, but she was with us.<br /><br />Over the following 2 weeks we certainly had our challenges as parents, balancing an active 16 month old Michela, sleep deprivation and noisy oxygen machines, but thru it all Rori continued to show improvement. She gained 11 ounces in the first 8 days of being home and we had increased her feedings by 20%, something the doctors didn't expect for a month. Needless to say, we as well as our doctors and nurses were very encouraged by her progress and surprised by this the events of today.<br /><br />Early this morning, March 22, at 12:30am as we woke to give her a feeding, we found that she had peacefully died in her sleep. We had known that this was a possibility and common way of death for Trisomy 18 babies, but we never thought about it or lived in fear of it happening.<br /><br />Words cannot express the hurt of this loss of our daughter, but in the 20 days that Rori brought joy to our lives, we learned so much. Behind the oxygen and feeding tubes was an absolutely beautiful baby. Her perfect little nose and lips were noticeably attractive and of great resemblance to her sister Michela. But the lessons that Rori taught us will never leave us.<br />First of all, we learned to take life one day at a time. Making plans for the future is okay, but love, cherish and live each day for what it is, the good, the challenges and opportunities. Tomorrow, if we are blessed with it, will have its own time, but live out today.<br />Secondly, you never know what someone is going thru in their life. If someone doesn't greet you with a smile, is seemingly distracted or just isn't driving fast enough ahead of you, do we know what a day is like in their shoes. Most of you did not know what a day was like for us and by our choice, this was a journey that we were on and we took each day one at a time.<br /><br />We would never wish what we went thru on anyone but we do feel great compassion for any that have lost a child, it is a loss and pain that I never imagined possible. But we say beyond a shadow of a doubt, "we would rather have had and lost, then never had at all." The 20 days with Rori are never going to be enough, but she is always loved and never forgotten.<br /><br />We want to thank the family members and friends that have tirelessly stood by our side in faith, in love and in presence. We are forever grateful for the compassion that you showed us.<br /><br />We would like to invite you to a memorial service for Rori Christianne that will be held on Thursday, March 25 at 11am. Service will be at Geo.H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home at 1010 Bering Drive, Houston, TX 77057.<br /><br />We Miss you Rori!!<br /><br />Andrew & Danielle<br /><br />PS: Pics are Rori at 8 days and Michela (I love to do laundry) at 16 months</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div><div class="photo photo_left"><div class="photo_img"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4923255&op=1&view=all&subj=108373172514583&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=108373172514583&id=637812888"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs442.snc3/25383_409377097888_637812888_4923255_366239_a.jpg" /></span></span></span></a></div><div class="caption"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Rori Christianne (8 days old)</span></span></span></div></div><div class="photo photo_right"><div class="photo_img"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4923256&op=1&view=all&subj=108373172514583&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=108373172514583&id=637812888"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img src="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs442.snc3/25383_409377242888_637812888_4923256_812845_a.jpg" /></span></span></span></a></div><div class="caption"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Michela Kay (16 months old)</span></span></span></div></div>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-74858976272985987332010-01-29T05:01:00.001-08:002010-07-11T06:41:05.727-07:00Feeling Awkward<span style="font-size:100%;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I once heard my pastor, Kerry Shook, mention that sometimes we need to risk being awkward in relationships and in life in order to get the breakthrough we want. I didn't think about it much until I started training a couple weeks ago for a shorter distance triathlon. I found myself training in ways that I hadn't trained before. I used to go to the gym and do what I was comfortable with while looking like I knew what I was doing. But this training is different and I'm having to risk being awkward to get the results I want.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's a few thoughts that I'm taking away from this experience that I think can apply to a lot of areas in life where we want to see new results. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1. ADMIT WE DON'T KNOW IT ALL</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The first time I got in the pool I soon realized that I am not a swimmer and if i'm going to swim almost a mile I better get good. I noticed someone better in the lane next to me and humbly asked if they could train me. The first lesson with her made me feel like I was 4 years old learning to swim all over again. ( yes it was a girl which was even more humbling for me as a man ) What is it that you need help with? ASK. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">2. STRETCH YOURSELF </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Stretching yourself requires you to go beyond "comfort level". I could easily do just enough, but instead I'm stretching myself in order to remove current limitations. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The first week I felt so much pain, but as time goes on it's getting better and better. When you get done with 1 mile in life why not see if you can do one more.<br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">3. ENJOY IT WITH OTHERS</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The one thing that's helped me stay motivated is having someone to train with. I used to train alone and that way I was the only one who knew my weakness. Training with someone exposes the truth about where you are and allows you to have someone in your life to push you past that. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">All of these things can transfer into any area of relationships, life and leadership. I definitely have a long way to go in these things but I'm at least enjoying the rewards of being a little awkward.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><br /></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-6515908746957703812010-01-04T14:47:00.000-08:002010-07-11T06:41:21.060-07:00Street Sign Design<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-size:85%;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I found a lesson to be learned in all the road signs on the freeway during my drive down to Houston yesterday. The thought behind those signs, and the purpose they serve are great reminders to designers and communicators.<br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Here's 3 principles they made me consider:</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">1. Clear Communication</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br />Road signs provide clear communication and eliminate any confusion. Does your design or message clearly communicate, or cause confusion?<br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">2. Guide the audience</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br />Road signs are very intentional in guiding you even to the point of telling you exactly which lane and when you turn. With good design and communication the same applies and you have the ability to guide the audience where you want them to go.<br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">3. Provide Purpose</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br />It seems simple, but every sign has a purpose. In design their should be purpose/value to what you do. Choosing elements carefully and not filling a page just to fill it. The same is true with communication and being selective with the words we use.<br /><br />This isn't really anything new for most designers or good communicators, but it was a simple reminder for me yesterday from something I see everyday.</span></span></span></span><br /></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-80340766828030270472009-09-21T19:37:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:41:44.227-07:00It Happens All the Time<span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Tonight I was at the store and when the woman finished ringing up my items she said my total was sixteen dollars even. I smiled and got a bit excited and told her how cool is that. She was much less excited and sat there just staring at me waiting to pay. As I'm getting my cash out I'm smiling even bigger and remind her how cool that was. She continued to stare, and finally said – "it happens all the time." After that I told her that it doesn't happen to me all the time so this is cool.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What are the odds that the seven items I bought would be sixteen dollars even? It rarely happens to me, and so when it did I still thought it was the neatest thing ever. It made me think though that the first time that ever happened, she probably even thought it was neat. But as the thing that once was special continues to occur, the novelty wears off and we no longer are in awe of the simple things. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It just got me thinking, what was I once in awe of that I now take for granted. And in our upgrade and improve always society, how do we keep ourselves always appreciating the small things. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's a couple thoughts:</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• take time to reflect on simple things that once made you happy</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• look at small things as big things – always</span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• take a minute to celebrate those moments and don't just let them pass</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I know for me as I continue in life I keep looking for something better, and I am less moved by the small things. I think it is good to return to the simple pleasures sometimes. Don't settle for simple, but sometimes return to it.</span></span></span></span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-5599424151200727632009-09-12T18:01:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:42:04.167-07:00Healer<span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">As I'm getting ready to lead worship tomorrow at Champions Life Centre, I find myself thinking and meditating on the songs and what they're saying. One song we're doing is called "Healer", written by Michael Guglielmucci. Michael claimed to be terminally ill and performed the song on Hillsongs DVD. He even went as far to perform wearing an oxygen mask. Later the word got out that this was all a bluff and Michael Guglielmucci was not terminally ill.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">The song itself is actually an incredible song and I believe there's still power in it. I believe this because although he used it as a song promoting physical healing, it seems when you look at the lyrics he was maybe crying out for emotional healing. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Here's the lyrics to the verse:</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">You hold my every moment</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">You calm my raging seas</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">You walk with me through fire</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">And heal all my disease</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">When I was running this morning I was remembering back to when I lost my mom. This song was one that brought great emotional healing to me as I sang and listened to those lyrics. I really believe that the reason this song still holds power is because it was an honest cry to God. He may not have even reallized that very well could have been a cry for emotional healing in his life. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Here's a couple thoughts from this:</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">• God can use anyone, in any state to get a message accross.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">• The motives weren't pure, but the message was.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">• Even when man lets you down, God's word still is strong and true. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">I know this is all my opinion, but at the end of the day I feel strongly that the message is what needs to be remembered and not the motives. The message has power when we put it to our own lives, and our own situations. God is still a healer and sometimes it's not just the physical, but it's in the emotional hurts and dissapointments we face too. I hope you can find the song and still let it be a source of strength for you in any situation you need healing. Relationships, finances, emotionally – nothing is impossible to God and He is still a healer.</span></span></span></span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-71810654303978453712009-08-11T07:43:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:42:20.013-07:00Opportunity - Responsibility Required<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:85%;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">It's been said that we create our own opportunities and I do believe there's truth to that. The founder of Forbes magazine is noted for saying, "Mediocre men wait for opportunity to come to them. Strong, able, alert men go after opportunity." Forbes was right, but as Christians I believe it's more than creating our own opportunities. It's about aligning our agendas with God's plan for each opportunity we are entrusted with.<br /><br />Within each opportunity we are entrusted with there comes a great responsibility. What will we do with that opportunity, and who do we see as the source of that opportunity? These two simple questions are key to helping us properly align ourselves and our focus in the right direction. If we see ourselves as the source, we will probably keep our own agenda at the forefront. Even if we've worked hard and earned an opportunity, and that opportunity is rewarded by man lets not forget that God is the source and giver of every perfect thing.<br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">A couple thoughts to keep in mind:</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">• Even when you're entrusted and given opportunity make sure your vision aligns with God's plan for that opportunity.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">• When this applies - make sure your vision in each opportunity is aligned under the vision of those leaders who have entrusted you. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">What I'm realizing is that even if it's a self-created opportunity, or one that has been given to me by someone else, it's never about me. My challenge is that I won't have a "me" agenda mindset, but a "he" agenda mindset. What does God require of me to do with this opportunity, or what do my leaders require from me in this opportunity.</span></span></span></span><br /></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-37689367227503908032009-07-27T20:26:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:42:33.821-07:00Growth Requires Guidance<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The other day I was helping my dad with his garden. He absolutely loves growing tomatoes and he has 3 plants that are taking off. To most of us we would look at a thriving plant and think it's doing just fine, but my much wiser father said we need to help keep those up straight to help the reach their full potential.<br /><br />This simple example reminded me how important guidance is in our growth. The plant has the ability to grow and spread out on it's own, but without the guidance to keep the whole plant off the ground it would not yield as much fruit in the end. With simple boundaries created the plant has the ability to grow, but now the guidance to grow in the right direction.<br /><br />In our own lives as professionals and individuals don't discount those around you who challenge you and help guide your growth. It's not that you don't have the ability to achieve, but those around you often help guide your ability to its full potential. Be confident enough in your abilities to recognize you need guidance in order to maximize your effectiveness. </span></span></span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-19282526439369605362009-07-17T06:31:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:42:49.626-07:00Leave Comfort<span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">John Maxwell writes that growth demands a temporary surrender of security. That thought led me to examine what areas am I getting comfortable in, or have I found security in? Security and comfort aren't bad, but making decisions for securities sake is not healthy.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Decisions of comfort happen in our life professionally, personally and spiritually. The problem with comfort is it can keep us from ever changing the way we do something. If we don't change, we really don't grow. There's really nothing worse than a stagnant life, devoid of change and improvement.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's a few things that might require a temporary surrender of security:</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• familiar, but limiting patterns<br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• relationships that don't challenge you to be better<br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• safe, but unrewarding work</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My challenge for me is that I spend 60% of my focus on what needs to get done, 20% on things towards the future and 20% developing already acquired and new skills. This is something I haven't perfected but will be continually evaluating in my life.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">"Why stay on earth except to grow"</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">- Robert Browning</span></span></span></span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2933929504288614108.post-18189132748338116562009-07-09T18:28:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:43:03.072-07:002 Objective Mindset<span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There's times when the client asks for something and it doesn't make the most sense, but in the end you have one objective to meet the clients need. I've approached many projects like this and seen minimal success in the products or services designed for. This "one objective" approach will keep a paycheck coming in, and ensure temporarily satisfied clients, but in the end this is playing it safe.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As designers and as people in life do we actually only have one objective? Is "playing it safe" the sure way? I truly believe designing for a client or setting personal goals in life are no different. The boundaries are defined and you can choose to stay confined with-in comfort or stretch yourself outside the box.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In stretching yourself to go outside the box you release the limitations set before you. It's usually in the times that we go beyond "the required" that we experience the most reward. Here's my challenge for you with personal goals, and dealing with tough bosses or clients. It's operate in the "2 objective mindset".</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">FIRST OBJECTIVE</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• Meet the requirement - always present what was asked for at bare minimum.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">SECOND OBJECTIVE</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">• Add value to the requirement - take the bare minimum and present an option that adds value. If you don't feel the requirement is strong enough then defeat it with added value, not just with opinion.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This applies personally and professionally. When you define the added value it motivates you and those you're trying to motivate. With a "2 objective mindset" it helps us not settle for just good enough in life. Let me know how you help motivate yourself to go beyond the comfort level or how you motivate clients/bosses to try something new.</span></span></span></span>Justin Kellerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11959959952205290223noreply@blogger.com0