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?

What I did on my Summer vacation

Can you believe summer is already coming to an end? Tomorrow, we publish or back-to-school special, and it made me realize how fast things are moving this year.

This was the first summer that didn't involve baseball in some form or another. Both my boys decided not to play. Zach, my oldest, found a job this summer. He is saving money for a truck. Joshua did not want to miss out on youth services at church due to baseball games, so he opted out this year. I am proud of both my boys.

For the first time in two years, we were able to take a week's vacation. Our family headed to Gulf Shores, Ala. where we rented a house with some friends -- right on the beach.

Since returning, I have learned that if you live in northwest Louisiana, you are required to take your vacation in Gulf Shores. Apparently the mandatory destination has moved west from Panama City and Destin, Fla.

There is something really cool about being able to walk out your back door and right on to the beach. My entire vacation can be summed up in the following phrases:

1. I ate too much
2. I slept a whole lot
3. I drove the whole time
4. I ate more
5. I shopped a bit.
6. Did I mention I ate?
7. I rested (aside from the sleep)
8. I enjoyed food, which I ate.

As summer comes to a close, I have a full belly and a rested body... SO BRING ON THE FALL

May The Blog Be With You...