the power of words

Who doesn’t like to receive an encouraging note?  I am blessed to have people in my life who know that words of affirmation are my love language.  I treasure notes that I receive ranging from a thank you for singing at a funeral to a cute piece of blue paper calling me a “cool uncle.”  When I die, apart from my family and the relationships God has blessed me with, these are my greatest earthly possessions.

Love notes from sister and her family

Here is an excerpt of a letter I received from Joshua with Fiwagoh Mission Orphanage.  He is the oldest child there and is in charge of assisting Pastor Benson in oversight of all the children.

Halo ,This is Joshua from Fiwagoh ,

Thanks to God because we can breath.  WE miss you so much .

I miss you most . Thanks for letting God use you to visit us  and make a difference in My life thanks for the shoes I still treasure them.

I may not write so often but with the few times I write It will glory God,

Your lesson has been a great lesson for us,Especially “for work or vacation ? For the Lord!

Please greet you family I love them so much!!

And one more from Gladys,  a teacher at the Fiwagoh Orphanage School.  I had the privilege to lead the teachers in Bible Study each day before they taught the kids.

letters from Fiwagoh orphanage children and in the back are letters from step brothers and friends.

Dear brother David,
I am teacher gladys from fiwagoh.how do you do? i am, fine in the name of our lord Jesus Christ.hope you too.how was your journey back to U.S.A ?hope fine through our almighty father.
How did you find Africa? especially kenya in fiwagoh? we still remember you and you are still fresh in our minds.especially when you took us through 3 days devotion.we still remember the favourite Bible verse(Eph 2:8) for sure you really inspire us.Especially myself i got encouraged with your teachings and sometimes i tend to think if it were only here on earth,how about when we will meet our Heavenly father?
Let us pray that you may make the advancement of the kingdom our highest intrest.that we may let no pursuit interefer with our wholeheartedly serving the lord, and wholeheartedly believe that the lord will provide for all our needs I miss you big and hope to meet you very soon.if not here in earth,then we will meet in heaven.have wonderful moments and always depend upon God for He is great and wonderful.
with Calvary love

I hope you will take some time this week to encourage someone.  You never know what power those words will have in their life.

two shelves with Christmas cards from precious friends, a birthday note from my sister, and letters from the Fiwagoh children.

Interview with Route 1520 Radio

Radio Interview with Route 1520

I wrecked my own world in the fall of 2009.  My choices hurt those around me, my local church, my family, and relationships.  I was interviewed last year by Tal Prince and Traylor Lovvorn of Route 1520 in April 2011.  We talk about my story:  grace, abuse of trust, theft, mask, insecurities, when life breaks, and how God restores us.  The interview last 30 minutes.  Would love to get your feedback.

Inspiration in running

Love Nike+ GPS

When I started running, I set several goals for myself.  I wanted to run 3 half marathons in a year, check.  I wanted to complete 1000 miles.  Lastly, I wanted to complete 300 runs.  As of today, I completed my 300th run with Nike+ GPS!!!  I am so excited.  Now I have several new goals: that 1000th mile, reach 200 hours, and run a half marathon with my sister in the fall.  When running, I think about four things:

1. My family and friends

2. Successes and goals

3.  Grace

4.  Who and what inspires me

Throughout all the runs, I have learned  valuable lessons and found tools that have helped me to stay committed.

Lesson 1:  Never chase a Kenyan.  I am not fast but I am a runner.  I can only run my race.

Lesson 2:  No one can run your miles for you. You have to put in the time, planning, and dedication to reach your goals.

Lesson 3:  Running is a mental discipline.  My mind wandering is often exposed with doubts or daydreams.  I have to train my mind to focus.

Lesson 4:  Learn from others.  There is great inspiration out there from tips, stories, and videos of how to improve.

Lesson 5:  Medals are given for finishing, not starting.  People may not remember how we start something but they remember how and if we finish.

Lesson 6:  Have an expert fit you for your shoes.  Nike LunarGlide+ 3 and Nike Structure Triax 15 fit me best.  Thanks Nike.

Now for the tools that have helped me reach my goals:

1. Nike+ GPS – tracks runs, pace, calories, goals, and more.  Love this for so many reasons.  Find it here for your iphone.

2. Runner’s World – the magazine and online both provide the tools to be stronger and faster.  Click here

3. KT Tape – Treats and prevents sports injuries.  Best out there! Click here

4. POTSC – honored to be part of this group, great motivation. Click here

Thank you to Nike, Runner’s World, KT Tape, to my family, and friends who inspire me and have helped me achieve this goal.  Now it’s time for a well deserved nap!