Hope for Knuckleheads

Phillie Casablanca/Flickr

Do you think you are a knucklehead? Maybe others think that about you. Either way, I have good news — there is hope for you.

A little History...

In my late teens and early 20s, my “knuckleheadedness” was in full motion. I was irresponsible, short-sighted and somewhat arrogant. Each weekend meant consuming too much alcohol, spending too much money and usually doing something stupid.

Each week, I would have to deal with the fallout of the previous weekend. Sometimes it was as “simple” as a hangover headache. Other times it was property damage or relationship destruction.

As a member of the military during that time, my superiors did not take kindly to my antics. In fact, I garnered the nickname “Airman Screwup.”

Things came to a head when I bounced several checks at local merchants and my First Sergeant sent me to Correctional Custody (Minimum Security Jail) for the weekend. I had to break the news to my fiancee, who was more than a little upset with me.

While I was “semi-incarcerated,” a light switch turned on inside my brain. I knew if I continued down this path, it will lead to my destruction — and I would lose the most important person in my life.

I would like to say that from that point on I didn't do anything stupid. Wouldn't we all like to say that? I did, however, do fewer stupid things, and started on a path toward maturity.

During the process, “Airman Screwup” became the go-to guy in his career field, separating from the Air Force two years later with the Air Force Achievement Medal and more importantly, an Honorable Discharge.

I also married that girl who helped straighten out this “Knucklehead” and we have been together for more than 22 years.

Now for the hope you have...

People who did not know me in my “Knucklehead” days would have a hard time believing I was ever “that guy.” People tend to see you where you are today, not how you got here.

Dave Ramsey talks about doing “stupid with zeroes on the end.” Yet, today he is one of the world's top authorities on money and leadership.

Turn on the light switch. Start on the path to maturity. Don't quit. As long as you are breathing, you have hope.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Question:

What “Knuckle-headed” things have you done in the past that you have overcome?