In 1776, the 13 colonies set out on a journey of self-determination, fighting for five years to overcome tyranny and explore the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. However, even then, the American experiment struggled—and continues to struggle—with contradictions around: whose life, whose liberty, and whose pursuit of happiness are worthy of these unalienable rights?
Last week, we set the historical context for the October 26th TJC Battlefield Summit at Kings Mountain, NC. This week, is your personal invitation to join me and TJC to ‘turn the tide’—for you and your family in your battles. Experience your victory firsthand too! Follow Me. I know the Way.
This One Time at Band Camp
via TJC
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” ~Romans 13:10
I wrote that to catch your attention. This isn’t going to be one of those “one time at band camp” stories, but in many ways, reminiscing about good times with old friends, new friends, and family is what makes the journey worthwhile.
When was the last time you got together with friends just to hang out? I know we all lead busy lives, but community matters. One of our TJC leaders really embodies this. A few weeks ago, he literally went door-to-door in his neighborhood, inviting the guys over for a Saturday breakfast—no strings attached. He calls this idea “being a neighbor.” His goal? Turning acquaintances on his street into true neighbors.
Just last weekend, I was on a work trip having dinner with some colleagues. Shortly after we were seated on the outdoor patio, an older gentleman (we later learned he’s 83) approached us and mentioned that the patio was reserved for their group. We apologized and said we’d ask the hostess to move us. But he stopped us: “Absolutely not,” he said. “I just came over to welcome you to the party. You’re seated here with our group, so that makes you part of our group… if that’s okay with you.”
His name was Leonard. He told us to expect about 20 others his age to join and get wild. We laughed, but he wasn’t kidding. We had stumbled into their weekly karaoke night. Our age wasn’t the only difference between us and this lively crew, but Leonard didn’t see any of that. He simply saw friends and neighbors he hadn’t met yet. For the next four hours, Leonard made us feel right at home. I learned he writes hymns, has strong, loving relationships, and tells off-color jokes (he’s 83, so… lol). Most of all, he gave me a night I’ll never forget. I’ll always remember the laughs, the experience, and, most importantly, how he made me feel.
During the dinner/party, I called the TJC leader I mentioned earlier and told him, “I’ve seen your future, and it is good!” He and Leonard are so much alike. Despite being more than 20 years his senior, Leonard is still out there seeking neighbors, making memories, and making others feel like they belong.
Daily Battle Order:
Register for the King’s Mountain Summit today! Don’t worry if you don’t know anyone—I promise when you leave, you’ll feel as at home as I did with Leonard. We’ve got our own “Leonard,” and he’ll be there too. You’re gonna love him!
And if you’re ever in Augusta, GA on a Thursday night, have dinner at El Veracruz. Sit on the patio and say “Hi” to Leonard.
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