Letters to My Grandchildren

Gale and I have been married for 46 years.  We've been through some great times and we've struggled with a number of challenges from health to fina...

Life will have  a way of knocking the wind out of you but I wanted to encourage you to take the long term view.

Bullies at school, a sudden job loss, a betrayal,  a diagnosis, a moment of panic or fear. In the short term, everything can feel like it’s falling apart. We worry. We stress. We imagine the worst.

But time has a way of clarifying things. What felt like a disaster in the moment, a week, a month, or a year later may seem much smaller. In fact, sometimes it turns out to be a turning point—something God used to grow us, correct our path, or strengthen our faith.

In a world that constantly chases after wealth, influence, and recognition, it’s easy to lose sight of what really counts. We spend years building careers, collecting possessions, and striving for status—only to find that, in the end, none of those things follow us beyond this life. What remains? According to Scripture, it’s simple and profound: love.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that conflict is unavoidable. It’s part of life—from childhood arguments with siblings to disagreements with coworkers, friends, or a spouse. And just when you think you’ve figured it out, your kids grow up and bring new forms of conflict into your life. It doesn’t matter how laid back you are (and I tend to be pretty easygoing myself), conflict will still find its way to your doorstep.

Christianity is more than head knowledge—it’s heart change. It’s not just going to church, but being the Church. It’s letting the fire of God burn so brightly in your life that others can’t help but see Him.

One of the greatest influences on your walk with God is the company you keep. Proverbs 13:20 tells us, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” God designed us for community, but not just any community—one built on love, truth, accountability, and shared faith

One of the most important lessons I can pass on to you is how to think about money. Not how to get rich quick. Not how to beat the system. But how to live wisely and faithfully when it comes to money—something most people struggle with their entire lives.

There’s something I want you to know deep in your heart: you were created on purpose, for a purpose. You’re not here by accident. Long before you were born, God had a plan for your life. That plan isn’t about fame, money, or chasing after what the world tells you is important. It’s about living a life that matters – a life that makes a difference.

One of the most important lessons I can pass on to you is how to think about money. Not how to get rich quick. Not how to beat the system. But how to live wisely and faithfully when it comes to money—something most people struggle with their entire lives.

The most important thing in life.

It’s not money. It’s not fame. It’s not even health, although health is a blessing.
The most important thing in life is to love God, love others, and follow Jesus with all your heart.

You see, life isn’t just about what you can earn or accomplish. It’s about who you walk with, and who you become along the way.