In less than 2 weeks, our team will be leaving for Haiti! A while back, each of us attended a security training at NorthPoint Church, presented by Brian Webb. I also just finished his book, ”Open My Eyes”, which elaborates on the information he shared at the training through the lens of mission travel. As I’ve been reflecting upon the material, I couldn’t help but share it with you. It’s simply too important not to pass along, and easy to share, with the possible reward of a life saved. Therefore, this month’s story is a little different from those past. It’s a bit serious and maybe even a bit frightening to learn about the realities of security around the world, but as Brian mentions often throughout his book, “With proper training and awareness of the dangers you will not only be safer but it will be possible to live life nearly free of fear!”

Brian’s bio is extensive, (and can be seen at the end of the story), but here are a few highlights: He served for nearly a decade as the National Program Manager for a government special operations program, he’s managed covert operations throughout the US and numerous foreign countries for 20+ years, he was certified as a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Instructor, being the primary instructor for government law enforcement special operations since the mid 90’s, and is considered one of the world’s leading experts in international narcotics smuggling and airborne counter terrorism operations. In short, he’s the guy I want to learn from when it comes to travel safety and security! Likewise, I’m so thankful he’s found a way to share his experience in training others how to prepare and equip themselves for dangerous situations.

March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day! It’s a day we celebrate people with Down Syndrome and participate in activities to advocate for their rights, inclusion, and well-being. After having my brother in my life for 25 years, I sit here pondering why we even have to advocate for the “rights, inclusion, and well-being” of those with Down Syndrome in the first place. What is it that makes us believe they shouldn’t have the same rights or inclusion as others? You see, for me, growing up with a brother who has Down Syndrome was normal. After all, he was born when I was just 2 years old and he is the very first memory I ever had – Thank you for the best first memory, Jesse! Despite life being a little different when he first entered into the world, life with him wasn’t much different in the sense of what another family might have been experiencing. After all, every family has differing quirks, issues, and personalities. Jesse just brought his own to our kitchen table where we gathered together to be a family. It’s the story of our family and I wouldn’t change it for the world. ❤️

Food. It has long been a source of gathering and community, a silent facilitator of relationships and celebration. In fact, we as a nation, just celebrated one of our most beautiful reflections of these very things, Thanksgiving! Aside from all that yummy Turkey, the tradition is an expression of gratitude and a time to gather […]

Today’s story focuses on Charity: water! One of my greatest passions is poverty alleviation through access to clean water and thus, I’ve followed Charity: water for some time. Some of you may remember my birthday campaign for clean water last September. Some of you even donated to that campaign! Thank you – more to come on the status of our project in a moment.

Speaking of birthdays, it’s Charity: water’s 12th birthday today!