Jacob Voges, Clay Greene, Cody Fee, - Future "Thanks-Giving"

I am confident that by now you know or understand I have a strong attachment to the theme of “Thanks-Giving”. There are so many things about the season and this time of the year that I just love. Having the opportunity to reflect and think back about this year and my lifetime, the experiences I have had, the people I have met, the places I’ve been and the books I have read are always good for me, and I hope you have enjoyed my thoughts of “Thanks-Giving” 2013. One of the things I really like about life is meeting people. I enjoy sharing stories and applying the “Six Degrees of Separation” theory is also a lot of fun for me. My final “Thanks-Giving” of 2013 is all about a single moment of “Six Degrees of Separation” involving three juniors from Middlesboro High School in Bell County, Kentucky. They are: Jacob Voges; Clay Green; and Cody Fee; These three are all juniors and are all straight ‘A’ students too. The setting is a crazy one, and I learned a long time ago the best thing to do with life is make the best of it, wherever you are. I was on top of a mountain, with thousands of 4-wheelers riding around, and folks from everywhere. I should mention there was a lot of dust and me, I was selling hotdogs! I saw friends from Laurel County, Harlan, Whitley, Rockcastle,and cousins from Knox County. Folks were from Claiborne County, Tennessee, and I met people I didn’t know from Indiana, Georgia and even Michigan. They had gathered for a “Hollor Crawler” event or it was called something like that and we were all on Mountain Drive off of U.S. 119 in Bell County. It was here that I met Jacob, Clay and Cody. After standing on feet, on gravels, I discovered a need to make this task of selling hotdogs fun and I had started speaking and even singing a little jingle I had made up. “Hot Dogs, Chips and a Soda $5., best deal on the hill and I will even squirt the mustard”. Most folks would listen, laugh & smile, and yes, I did sold a lot of mountain specials too. It was my way of having fun, and I considered it a challenge to get the attention of some folks and to see if I could get them to smile. It was during my routine that I spotted these three, Jacob, Clay and Cody. The skinniest of the three (I would later learn to be Jacob) responded to my little jingle with “man I would love a hotdog but I am broke, I don’t have any money”. It was then my Christian compassion set in and thinking he and his friends might starve to death I said ok, come on over and I will pay for it. The conversation was free flowing then, we were smiling and laughing and I was having a blast, and I’m pretty sure they were too. It was then, the theory of “Six Degrees of Separation” kicked in. We older folks know what the first questions we ask of a young person, “Who is your parents”? “Where are you from”. I am pretty sure most teenagers understand and immediately are sizing us up as old and outdated. Such as maybe the case, nevertheless I was going to use this moment of fun to meet three new folks in this big world and this journey called life, and I am glad I did. I am including them as a part of my “Thanks-Giving” because of the experience. Now when I write that Jacob was the skinny one, he is. Later when I met his father I said do you all feed this kid at home, looks like he’s starving. You should know we were laughing at great levels of fun knowing I was pretty sure he was being fed at home but was just a bean pole in size. I should share that my impression was that he was a smart bean pole and was keeping up with conversation, questions, and we were having a lot of fun. In the rapid fire conversation we were connecting on all kinds of fronts. From his German background to his parents work, and even on food, it was connection time. Clay Green was not excluded from the conversation. He was laughing and he has a great sense of humor and love for good fun too. You know how we are here in the mountains. When you discover that you have connections for distant cousins, you claim kin. I did with Clay, naming him my new found cousin because of the Green Family and a connection with cousins of mine. I connected with Cody Fee because of my love for a Route 44 Limeade from Sonic! It could be that Cody is the smartest one out of the three since he had a job, was working and had cash. I’ll leave that debate for these three to hammer out later. Jacob, Clay and Cody make my list of “Thanks-Giving” because they represent the best of young people. They are bright, intelligent, fun, can carry on a conversation, have opinions, can debate and they too were seizing a single moment of life, making the best of it. That was impressive to me. I haven’t seen them sense, and may never see them again, but I hope not. I look forward to writing 20 years from now about their successes and when I met them on a mountain top. Until then.

"Thanks-Giving" Finding thanks in the difficult & challenging times

During the month of November I have been taking time with each newspaper column to write about my personal “Thanks-Giving”. It is a time of reflection to be thankful for those that have made a difference in my life. The difference could be for some a lifelong difference or it could also be as simple as a passing moment in time. When you and I are in the mode of practicing “Thanks-Giving” there is a tendency to sometimes avoid discussion or mention of things that were not so pleasant. Maybe the memories are hurtful, or it is a sore spot that you just rather not mention. Often when we are giving thanks we believe that is should be all the positive stuff and again we avoid the mention of situations or events that were challenging or difficult to get through. I believe that in order to receive the best out of being a person of “Thanks-Giving” you and I should also not negligent finding the positive or things that should cause us to be appreciative and grateful even if the thanks comes from this type of situation. In the United States there is a massive debate about when life begins. The opposing sides have two different takes on life. Pro-Life believes that life begins at conception. Pro-Choice believes that abortion is an acceptable practices and each side sees the other and their belief as totally unacceptable. I share this because I have had to be both practical and realistic in the midst of dreams and prayers. In my marriage my wife and I wanted to be parents. I have always wanted to be a ‘biological’ father. To be honest with you, discussing responsibilities in a totally scientific realm is not exactly easy. For any couple that has desired to be parents and raise a child, the tendency is to discuss this in terms of love and words that describe humanity and relationships, not scientific descriptions where there is no attachment or connection. Losing a child prematurely or if you describe it as a loss pregnancy is a devastating experience to those involved. To the awaiting community at-large, a baby shower or birth announcement is the anticipation but this type of experience leave a total disconnect. The end of life or a pregnancy is normally held deep within and with a hushed silence as if not speaking about it will make the situation change or go away. This experience in life is one that we avoid talking about at all cost and attempting to find “Thanks-Giving” out of the situation is one that I had to explore in order to be able to smile again, keep a happy face and the strength to press on. I found plenty of moments to celebrate life and “Thanks-Giving” because of the experience but it was not easy. I give thanks for the experience of the excitement of the news we were pregnant. There is nothing in the world like that news! Thanks for photos of a baby, or life. Listening to a heartbeat is something to be thankful for. When despair and even depression set in, finding a way to say thanks is the ultimate challenge. Finding a way to say thanks for fleeting moments requires work and commitment. The loss of a single life is difficult, the loss of twins is added hurt and pain. Finding joy, and appreciate for the experience is not an easy road to travel but the experience of finding thanks is life changing. To be a ‘biological’ parent is awesome, I applaud all that are and I thank God you have what scripture calls a “blessing” in your life. I pray you are thankful and realize the gift you have been given. My experience and witness in life is that so many who are ‘biological’ parents seem to have so little appreciation for the gift God gave them. Counting my blessings and naming them might not include the scientific term ‘biological’, and honestly that is ok with me, I never enjoyed studying biology anyway. However, if you are willing to travel a different road, a road that others might avoid it could that it is there you will find ‘blessings’, I know I did. Stepping into a life by invitation to be “father” is an opportunity that creates plenty of “Thanks-Giving”. I am confident that if we each take time to talk about the difficulties and challenges of life, we might just be able to discover plenty of thanks we can write down in our “Thanks-Giving” for 2013. We are each different and unique. This provides for us special “Thanks-Giving” that should be properly noted in the history of our lives. Our testimony to be is that we faced the challenge, we walked through the fire and came out the other side with a deep appreciation of God’s love, mercy and grace that would have been lost without the experience. Until then

"Thankg-Giving" Nate Zettler-Union College; Keith Banford Hill-Campbellsville University;

There are a few things I can guarantee. I know that you should never say never, and you should never guarantee unless you really can, but I've got this. If you are reading this newspaper column then you are a the son or daughter of someone I can guarantee that. Growing up whether you were raised by your parents, grandparents, foster parents, aunts or uncles, I am confident that you were encouraged to be involved in things throughout your life. If your influences were in sports, then it was athletics; Music-join the band, choir, jazz band; Writing-Journalism Club, Year Book Staff, Editor of your school newspaper; Academic Teams-scholastic events; Miranda Lambert sings in her award winning song "All Kinds of Kinds", that is it takes all kinds, and it does. I played sports growing up in elementary and high school, but my parents never encouraged my siblings or me to do so. My mother wanted us to do anything beside play football. Being involved in activities, in a club, or on a team, teach a lot of lessons that are valuable for life. It truly takes all kinds of kinds and each of us represent our kind. In high school when I wasn't playing football I served as the public address announcer for my high school basketball team. Somewhere between introduction of the starting five for each team I was also calling 'play by play' for WANO Radio 1230AM. My involvement in sports grew to include serving as an official with the Ky High School Athletic Association, then I went on to officiating junior college basketball, NAIA basketball all the way to being a "ref" in the NCAA. In time, I went from officiating to serving as a sports chaplain, ministering to teams, sharing motivational messages and encouragements as a Christian and public speaker. This being my season of "Thanks-Giving" I cannot help by mention the blessings of opportunities because of sports. Nate Zettler from Hamilton, Ohio was recently conducted into the Union College Hall of Fame. During his acceptance speech he mention my work and ministry sharing about his struggle when he was a freshman in college and how he had become homesick and was ready to go back to Ohio. When he signed his professional baseball contract with the Kansas City Royals he called then to say thanks, reminding me of our times together. One of his favorite stories to tell about "preacher" is when I would drive behind him in the college van playing his favorite music loudly out the windows to motivate him as he ran. (If only we had MP players back then) Serving others I have discovered really makes a difference. It maybe years that pass before you know the impact but we should never discredit the effort of helping others. Banford Keith Hill played baseball at Campbellsville University. A friendship that began because of sports when I would umpire his college baseball games. Our friendship includes witnessing him graduate from the Lexington Metro Police Department, to the opportunity of serving as his wedding officiant for he and wife Nancy, to now the celebration of the birth of their son James Banford. Who would have imagined? I didn't but I am grateful for each year we've shared together. So many friendships, to many to mention, but this year Nate represents Union College and Keith represents Campbellsville University. Hundreds of "Thanks-Givings" made through sports and each year until I type no more I will honor these unique friendships that have become so valuable and cherished. The opportunities we each have are special, each in their own kind of way. It takes all kinds of kinds and I am thankful this year to acknowledge the difference Nate, Keith and their families have made in my life. "Thanks-Giving". Until then

"Thanks-Giving" Scott Koon - David Graves - Christian Moore

This is "Thanks-Giving" Season for me and with each column I write this month I am not only taking the opportunity to say thanks to people that have impacted my life but I am praying you will be inspired to create your own method of saying "thanks" and "giving" of yourself in some way that will be an impact such as you have received. Some of you are doing the days of November and I applaud that or any plan as long as it comes from your heart. I do believe you will get the most out of your effort if you take time to reflect, naming the blessings, yes, listing them one by one. Employment is something that during these economic times especially is one topic that we should be able to find some "Thanks-Giving" attitude of appreciation toward. As some of you know, I have a lot of interest. I don't mind having a resume full of different companies, highlighting various responsibilities I have assumed or project I have undertaken. For those whom our connection is this newspaper column, you might think this is my full-time career but it isn't. Sometimes the work creating columns makes me think this is full-time, but I love doing this too. Since 2009 I have worked in an agency as an Agent of State Farm and this time period also includes my time working directly for State Farm Corporation. In November 2012 I meet David Graves and Christian Moore. Two guys I had never known prior to our training in the corporation. My biggest influence, supporter and trusted adviser in agency has been Agent Scott Koon. He provided me the opportunity to join his team, learn the system, and he helped guide me in my goals and I will be forever grateful to Agent Koon and his leadership in my career and my personal life. It is during this season of "Thanks-Giving" that I publicly want to acknowledge him, David and Christian. David Graves was once the youngest women's basketball coach in the NCAA. He was head coach at Western Ky University. I say he was, because he is older now, and has been replaced by some younger "whipper-snapper"..as I like to say. A great husband, father and dedicated student to the industry. David is a master at team involvement and his experience includes knowing how to be a gracious loser. His success in the Final Four teaches more than I can write in this particular column. David lives with his wife and children and operates David Graves State Farm Christian Moore is a young father, and husband who has committed his life and family to serving others through their Christian Faith and dedication to make a difference in the world with their lives. A goal they have been successful at already. The future success and impact will happen because they have not quit giving of themselves. Consistent practice is what makes perfect is a great motto for Christian. One he demonstrates continuously. My "Thanks-Giving" for these three are that friends are easy to find when things are going great and gloriously. It is when things change unexpected, without warning that one is able to see clearly through the smoke and fire of things who is still standing, unmoved, and extending a hand of help. Scott, David and Christian have earned they way into my season of "Thanks-Giving" by always calling, emailing, and simply asking how are you doing? I am confident that you might three individuals in your life just like this. If you do, I would suggest an acknowledgment to let them know, you noticed. Until then

"Thanks-Giving" will you join me? My yearly practice has begun

Welcome to my favorite time of the year! There are many reasons why I so enjoy the fall season. The leaves turning the world into a beautiful colorful landscape is just one of my reasons. I enjoy the cold temperatures. I like the cold wind blowing that is cold enough to make your bones chill. I enjoy staying close to a fire outside so the front of your body feels like it is on fire and your back side is freezing off. Yes, these are all reasons why I love this time of the year. The most important reason to me is that I am able to turn the month of November into a month of “Thanks – Giving”. I guess one of the reasons I have taken on this personal project I call “Thanks – Giving” is because the retail world takes no time at all for Thanksgiving except for promotion of their turkey sales around the Thanksgiving Holiday. To be honest, if you watch families, they too take very little time to honor the importance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. Most families are so excited about Halloween and the approach of Christmas that only on Thanksgiving Day, if then, is there any pause for what this holiday is all about. It should be noted that only in America do we celebrate Thanksgiving, and it should be a very special time of the year instead of just another day, with of course turkey, ham and pumpkin pie that we add to the that day’s schedule. Several years ago I began making this time of the year my personal season of “Thanks – Giving” and I did so by reflecting and thinking back through the year and other years for that matter, and remembering people, places, experiences and even some books I have read. I want to write and say that I have always been a thankful person. I know beyond any shadow of a doubt I can say I have always been thankful for the things I wanted, that I received. My mind is spinning as I attempt to recall all the things I should have been thankful for that I didn’t receive. Living a life of “Thanks – Giving” is not exactly the way most folks wake up with each morning. I personally believe that in order to live such a life it must be a deliberate, intentional and purposed plan if we are to be successful. I am embarrassed to say and think that I have not always been a positive person, cherishing the moments of life as they occur. No doubt, friends that will read this, and those of you who know me personally will say I am always smiling, I am always having fun, and that I have a strong positive outlook on life. Thanks, and I can agree but I also know I have my moments too. Thus I believe writing about this and encouraging people to create their own “Thanks – Giving” season is a good thing to do. As I have been preparing for these “Thanks – Giving” columns I have had a lot of fun. Just thinking back about different moments has been one way to count my blessings several times over. There is no need to reinvent the wheel as they say, so counting your blessings and naming them one by one will do you some good too if you will take the time to write them down. I know it seems crazy, and if you ask anyone their opinion about blessings and things to be thankful for, folks will say you are on the right track, but the failure comes in not following through and actually writing them down, naming them and proclaiming yourself thankful. This process will take a little time, some effort, reflection, energy and excitement for the project. I will encourage you now to be broad minded in your thoughts and reflection. It is easy to name your family members, but you might find it a little more challenging with you start to name their acts that cause you to be “Thanks – Giving” in attitude. In your broad vision don’t be afraid to mention the everyday stuff. Some of the greatest little gifts in life come from some of the most normal routines that we complete all the time. Union College in Barbourville at one time had a slogan. It was “Think outside yourself”. At first glance the slogan might seem a little strange, but when you reflect upon the thought, it is pretty awesome. From time to time I believe life requires us to do just that kind of thinking. If you don’t look outside yourself, first you might just miss something that is designed specifically for you. Second, if you don’t look outside yourself it is very possible that you will miss a golden opportunity to make someone’s day by using your gifts and talents. Get ready for my favorite time of the year, “Thanks – Giving”. You and I have this moment to share our ‘thanks’. We have this moment to do some ‘giving’ to others. Until then