I'm in Houston for a couple days for my grandpa's surgery and PT school interview at a school to be named at a later date. While I'm in town, I decided to set up several times to see all of my Houston friends. I just returned from lunch with a dear friend of mine. There is one thing I took away from our conversation -- prayer changes everything.
Little did I know he had some very exciting news to share with me. After a 4 year journey of heartache, tears, anger, joy, peace, and every other fathomable emotion, the Lord moved in His perfect timing -- my friend and his wife are expecting their first child. I was overjoyed and thankful to the Lord for everything He is doing in their lives.
About 3 years ago, my friend called and asked me to start praying for he and his wife. No neccessary for a baby, but for the Lord to reveal His good and perfect plan to them. I did and today I'm blessed to have walked through this with them along with several other friends and family.
The Lord answers prayer so be steadfast in praying and petitioning the Lord.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Texas Aggie Bonfire: A Personal Perspective
Ten years ago today, Aggie Bonfire fell in the early morning hours of November 18 killing 12 students and injuring 27. The event was a defining moment in the history of Texas A&M University. The tragedy thrust the university onto the national news and many people across the nation and world watched as the Aggie family reacted. What they saw was the Aggie family's finest hour. The events that would unfold after the collapse will forever be etched in my mind.
I was a wide eyed freshman still in my first semester at A&M. Not only was I trying to get adjusted to life as a college student, I was also trying to adjust to the military lifestyle demanded by the Corps of Cadets. One week before Bonfire fell I remember heading out to the site to work on the stack. After working several weekends to cut the logs, it was a privilege to climb up on the stack in a swing that hung from center pole and help tie the logs in with wire. Fast forward to the night of the collapse. I again made my way out to the site with friends to watch many Aggies feverishly working to finish Bonfire before it was to be lit the very next week. I watched in amazement as students from all parts of campus worked as a team to make sure Bonfire was a success. My Corps outfit was supposed to be on duty, but had switched with another outfit due to some scheduling conflicts. After a while, I headed back to the dorm to study for my Biology test the next day.
The morning of the collapse my roommate and I got out of bed at 4:30 a.m. to start cleaning our room for morning inspection. We had just started cleaning when every freshman was called into a room to deliver the news. "Bonfire has fallen. Some of our fellow Aggies have been killed. Please go call home to let them know you are alright." The message was simple, but the news was shocking. I walked back to my room in disbelief and with so many questions. I already had voice mails on my recorder from friends and family wanting to know if I was safe.
Texas A&M had been cast onto the national scene.
After I got dressed, I headed to my test which was cancelled and then directly to the site where Bonfire had collapsed. The campus was eerily quiet except for the news helicopters that hovered above campus. On my way to the stack, I ran into Miranda Adams' (one of the final Aggies killed in the collapse) parents. They needed directions to Bonfire and I offered to take them straight there. On the way, we talked about Miranda and how much she enjoyed working on Bonfire and how much she loved Texas A&M. When we arrived at stack, we located one of her friends who knew her parents. Initial reports suggested Miranda was still alive at a local hospital, but when the final report came in later that day, she had passed away during the collapse. After saying goodbye to her parents, I stayed out at stack searching for answers and asking why this happened. I could not believe what was unfolding before my eyes. I don't remember much more from the day except the memorial service held at Reed Arena later that night.
At the memorial, we sang the school song, heard addresses from the President and Student Body President, but perhaps the most moving part of the ceremony was not on the program. When everyone was dismissed, no one moved. It was as if no one wanted to leave, we just wanted to be together. Then, unannounced, everyone stood up and put there arms around one another. Silence followed for a few minutes, before every student in the arena began singing "Amazing Grace" in a capella. It was probably one of the most moving experiences of my college career.
It was at this point when I finally understood what it meant to be a Texas Aggie. It was at this point when I knew I was part of a family.
In the weeks following the tragedy, people from across the state and nation reached out in support of Texas A&M University. Additionally, I will always have the utmost respect for the response from the students at the University of Texas for their overwhelming support of A&M during this tough time in our history.
Looking back on that day ten years ago brings back a flood a memories. Memories of campus and how quiet it was in the days following the collapse. Memories of the candlelight vigil held out at the site at the time when Bonfire was scheduled to be lit. Memories of thousands of Aggies packed into Kyle Field for one of the most emotional yell practices before the game with t.u. Memories of the Longhorn band raising Aggie flags as they played Amazing Grace during halftime. Memories of the Texas Aggie band marching in the silent block T to end their halftime performance. And I could go on and on.
We will never forget the 12 Aggies and the legacies they left on the campus of Texas A&M. For them, they will fall into the long maroon line of those who went before them while the Aggie family continues to answer "Here" in their absence.
There's spirit can ne'er be told, it's the spirit of Aggieland
I was a wide eyed freshman still in my first semester at A&M. Not only was I trying to get adjusted to life as a college student, I was also trying to adjust to the military lifestyle demanded by the Corps of Cadets. One week before Bonfire fell I remember heading out to the site to work on the stack. After working several weekends to cut the logs, it was a privilege to climb up on the stack in a swing that hung from center pole and help tie the logs in with wire. Fast forward to the night of the collapse. I again made my way out to the site with friends to watch many Aggies feverishly working to finish Bonfire before it was to be lit the very next week. I watched in amazement as students from all parts of campus worked as a team to make sure Bonfire was a success. My Corps outfit was supposed to be on duty, but had switched with another outfit due to some scheduling conflicts. After a while, I headed back to the dorm to study for my Biology test the next day.
The morning of the collapse my roommate and I got out of bed at 4:30 a.m. to start cleaning our room for morning inspection. We had just started cleaning when every freshman was called into a room to deliver the news. "Bonfire has fallen. Some of our fellow Aggies have been killed. Please go call home to let them know you are alright." The message was simple, but the news was shocking. I walked back to my room in disbelief and with so many questions. I already had voice mails on my recorder from friends and family wanting to know if I was safe.
Texas A&M had been cast onto the national scene.
After I got dressed, I headed to my test which was cancelled and then directly to the site where Bonfire had collapsed. The campus was eerily quiet except for the news helicopters that hovered above campus. On my way to the stack, I ran into Miranda Adams' (one of the final Aggies killed in the collapse) parents. They needed directions to Bonfire and I offered to take them straight there. On the way, we talked about Miranda and how much she enjoyed working on Bonfire and how much she loved Texas A&M. When we arrived at stack, we located one of her friends who knew her parents. Initial reports suggested Miranda was still alive at a local hospital, but when the final report came in later that day, she had passed away during the collapse. After saying goodbye to her parents, I stayed out at stack searching for answers and asking why this happened. I could not believe what was unfolding before my eyes. I don't remember much more from the day except the memorial service held at Reed Arena later that night.
At the memorial, we sang the school song, heard addresses from the President and Student Body President, but perhaps the most moving part of the ceremony was not on the program. When everyone was dismissed, no one moved. It was as if no one wanted to leave, we just wanted to be together. Then, unannounced, everyone stood up and put there arms around one another. Silence followed for a few minutes, before every student in the arena began singing "Amazing Grace" in a capella. It was probably one of the most moving experiences of my college career.
It was at this point when I finally understood what it meant to be a Texas Aggie. It was at this point when I knew I was part of a family.
In the weeks following the tragedy, people from across the state and nation reached out in support of Texas A&M University. Additionally, I will always have the utmost respect for the response from the students at the University of Texas for their overwhelming support of A&M during this tough time in our history.
Looking back on that day ten years ago brings back a flood a memories. Memories of campus and how quiet it was in the days following the collapse. Memories of the candlelight vigil held out at the site at the time when Bonfire was scheduled to be lit. Memories of thousands of Aggies packed into Kyle Field for one of the most emotional yell practices before the game with t.u. Memories of the Longhorn band raising Aggie flags as they played Amazing Grace during halftime. Memories of the Texas Aggie band marching in the silent block T to end their halftime performance. And I could go on and on.
We will never forget the 12 Aggies and the legacies they left on the campus of Texas A&M. For them, they will fall into the long maroon line of those who went before them while the Aggie family continues to answer "Here" in their absence.
There's spirit can ne'er be told, it's the spirit of Aggieland
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
40th Anniversary of the NYC Marathon
This weekend, on the streets of the Big Apple, drama unfolded. No, it was not the Yankees taking another game from the Phillies. Instead, one of the greatest road races in the country and, arguably, the world was run. This year, the 40th running of the ING NYC Marathon saw an American male athlete win the race for the first time in more than 20 years. To many people this was just a blip on the radar screen, but to marathon junkies like myself it was a pretty incredible feat. In many ways, I believe it demonstrated the resurgence of American distance running and its return to the international running scene. Congrats to Meb and Ryan and the other American athletes who performed so well on Sunday.
As I watched the race on TV, I could not help but think back to the 2 times I had the opportunity to cross the Verrazano Bridge into Brooklyn, run up 4th Street through Queens and over into Manhattan, run up 1st Avenue with thousands of people cheering me on, catch a glimpse of Yankee stadium as I entered the Bronx, and running the final 4 miles of the race through the middle of Central Park. To put it simply, it was an incredible experience. An experience I hope I get another chance to do again.
So if you have any aspirations of running your first marathon or you've already competed in several marathons, you need to look into running NYC. You will never regret it. They have already opened the lottery system for the 2010 race next November. Check it out here.
As I watched the race on TV, I could not help but think back to the 2 times I had the opportunity to cross the Verrazano Bridge into Brooklyn, run up 4th Street through Queens and over into Manhattan, run up 1st Avenue with thousands of people cheering me on, catch a glimpse of Yankee stadium as I entered the Bronx, and running the final 4 miles of the race through the middle of Central Park. To put it simply, it was an incredible experience. An experience I hope I get another chance to do again.
So if you have any aspirations of running your first marathon or you've already competed in several marathons, you need to look into running NYC. You will never regret it. They have already opened the lottery system for the 2010 race next November. Check it out here.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Friday Funny
Why do we have an obesity problem in America today? Probably because don't have more videos like this one. Enjoy - it will probably be the best 4 minutes you will spend this week. I miss the 80s!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
When life is interrupted....
...how do you respond? I think it's hard to answer that question until the moment comes. There is no preparation and there is no practice. So when someone or something throws a kink in your best laid plans, how do you react?
My story started about two weeks ago when I was heading to my first PT school interview at a school in Dallas. I got up early to make sure I had time to take a shower, enjoy my morning cup of joe, and eat a good breakfast. I left the house 2 hours prior to my interview in order to allow enough time to get to the school, settle down at a local Starbucks, and relax prior to my interview.
Well, things didn't exactly work out as planned. Yes, I did leave the house 2 hours early, but the weather was so nasty that it took me 1 1/2 hours to drive to Dallas, a drive that normally takes 30 minutes. However, I was not stressing out because I still had 30 minutes to spare. Then, life took a turn for the worst.
As I was sitting at a red light, I noticed an empty lane to my left and decided The Menace (my car) needed to be in that lane instead of the one I was currently in. Just about the time I made my move to the left hand lane, a car traveling about 30-40 mph collided with the front end of my car.
Houston, we have a problem.
I'm only 5 miles from the school, but now I've got to sort out this wreck, stand in the driving rain in my suit, and somehow pull myself together and get to my interview in less than 30 minutes. My initial reaction was one of pure disbelief. These things happen to other people, not me. Reality soon kicked in and forced me to deal with the situation. I had been waiting more than a year for this moment and now I felt like it was all going down the drain. But I had to trust the Lord had everything under control. Thankfully, we were able to sort out the wreck, exchange insurance, and I arrived at my interview 5 minutes ahead of time composed and collected.
Right now, I'm not sure if this story has the ending I intended when I left my house that Friday morning. But one thing I am sure of is that the Lord is concerned about every detail of our lives -- from the smallest issues to the biggest decisions -- and I'm confident if you view life through that lens you will react differently when life is interrupted.
My story started about two weeks ago when I was heading to my first PT school interview at a school in Dallas. I got up early to make sure I had time to take a shower, enjoy my morning cup of joe, and eat a good breakfast. I left the house 2 hours prior to my interview in order to allow enough time to get to the school, settle down at a local Starbucks, and relax prior to my interview.
Well, things didn't exactly work out as planned. Yes, I did leave the house 2 hours early, but the weather was so nasty that it took me 1 1/2 hours to drive to Dallas, a drive that normally takes 30 minutes. However, I was not stressing out because I still had 30 minutes to spare. Then, life took a turn for the worst.
As I was sitting at a red light, I noticed an empty lane to my left and decided The Menace (my car) needed to be in that lane instead of the one I was currently in. Just about the time I made my move to the left hand lane, a car traveling about 30-40 mph collided with the front end of my car.
Houston, we have a problem.
I'm only 5 miles from the school, but now I've got to sort out this wreck, stand in the driving rain in my suit, and somehow pull myself together and get to my interview in less than 30 minutes. My initial reaction was one of pure disbelief. These things happen to other people, not me. Reality soon kicked in and forced me to deal with the situation. I had been waiting more than a year for this moment and now I felt like it was all going down the drain. But I had to trust the Lord had everything under control. Thankfully, we were able to sort out the wreck, exchange insurance, and I arrived at my interview 5 minutes ahead of time composed and collected.
Right now, I'm not sure if this story has the ending I intended when I left my house that Friday morning. But one thing I am sure of is that the Lord is concerned about every detail of our lives -- from the smallest issues to the biggest decisions -- and I'm confident if you view life through that lens you will react differently when life is interrupted.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Time Has Come
Last August, I jumped off and did something I knew I wanted to do. However, when I left Arizona to head back to Texas, I was not quite sure how it would all turn out. Now, almost a year later and after a lot of hard work, I'm one step closer to that dream becoming a reality. On Friday, I will step on the campus of an undisclosed medical school here in Texas and interview for one of the 40 coveted spots for their doctorate of physical therapy program. I'm excited, anxious, and tremendously honored.
This week I've had the chance to reflect this past year -- the ups and downs, the late nights of studying, and the countless hours of volunteering and observation all in preparation for this moment. I couldn't help but see all the ways the Lord worked in my life during that time. Put simply, He has been faithful and He has been good.
I can't wait to see the outcome of my interview on Friday. I'll be sure to let my Running the Race readers if/when I receive any news.
This week I've had the chance to reflect this past year -- the ups and downs, the late nights of studying, and the countless hours of volunteering and observation all in preparation for this moment. I couldn't help but see all the ways the Lord worked in my life during that time. Put simply, He has been faithful and He has been good.
I can't wait to see the outcome of my interview on Friday. I'll be sure to let my Running the Race readers if/when I receive any news.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Consistency
Consistency....in theory it sounds really good, but when it comes to my blog, I have been the poster child for inconsistency. As one of my friends pointed out, my blog is going to start being referred to as "empty Web space" unless I get my act together and start providing some half way decent content on my blog. Consistency is hard, but I'm up for the challenge. Keep holding me accountable and I'm going to put "blogging" towards the top of my to do list.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
It's come to my attention....
....that my blog needs to be revived/given CPR/cared for and nurtured a bit more. I didn't realize I had so many avid readers out there in cyberspace. Over the past few weeks, I've heard of two friends who have started blogs because of Running the Race so I need to uphold my end of the bargain and blog as well.
Where do I start? A better question might be, where did the summer go? All I can say it was an incredible summer full of a ton of great memories, hills and valleys, and laughs and tears. But I can't think of a recent summer in the past 10 years that had more "stuff" jam packed into it.
In the next few days, I hope to start unpacking my summer for you, reliving some of the best memories, and spend some time talking about what's going on now and what I'm looking forward to in the future.
I'm looking forward to sharing some insight into the crazy world of Burke Wilson.
Where do I start? A better question might be, where did the summer go? All I can say it was an incredible summer full of a ton of great memories, hills and valleys, and laughs and tears. But I can't think of a recent summer in the past 10 years that had more "stuff" jam packed into it.
In the next few days, I hope to start unpacking my summer for you, reliving some of the best memories, and spend some time talking about what's going on now and what I'm looking forward to in the future.
I'm looking forward to sharing some insight into the crazy world of Burke Wilson.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
I'M A TEXAN!!
I'm back Running the Race blog readers. I hope you enjoyed your summer vacation. I've been knee deep in summer school, but on Monday, it all ends and I'll have two weeks of vacation. I got some wonderful news today and thought it would be fitting to share it first on my blog.
I was officially awarded my Texas residency today. WHOOP!!
Arizona, it will be hard to see you go, but my true homeland is calling my name. I've never been more ready to go put on my cowboy boots, pearl snap shirt, tight Wrangler jeans and 10 gallon cowboy hat and go two-steppin'.
On top of that great news, I now get to pay in state tuition which will save me a ton of money!!
I was officially awarded my Texas residency today. WHOOP!!
Arizona, it will be hard to see you go, but my true homeland is calling my name. I've never been more ready to go put on my cowboy boots, pearl snap shirt, tight Wrangler jeans and 10 gallon cowboy hat and go two-steppin'.
On top of that great news, I now get to pay in state tuition which will save me a ton of money!!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Recharge
It's been a little more than a week since I returned to the States and to say that I "hit the ground running" is a little bit of an understatment. It is better to characterize it as I hit the ground sprinting like I was trying to outrun Usain Bolt in the 100m dash.
I've been looking forward to today this entire week. I knew that with first round of tests, work, and volunteer activities that I was going to running around DFW a lot. But I also knew that at the end of that tunnel, I had scheduled some time to recharge my battery.
This morning, I slept in until 7:45 a.m. Now, some people might not consider that sleeping in, but when you are waking up every morning at 5:00 a.m., almost three more hours of sleep seems like a dream come true. I got up this morning, enjoyed some Kenyan brew, some biscuits with my favorite peanut butter and syrup, went for a nice run, cleaned my room, and just spent some time by myself. And because of it, I'm completely recharged and ready to go back at it.
This has been one of the biggest lessons I've tried to apply to my life since returning from Africa. I realize there will be times when I'm moving at mach speed. That is just life. But I've learned to recognize those times and make sure I have some down time scheduled to recharge my battery and refill my tank.
Have you made some time recently to recharge your battery so that you can continue to be an effective mom or dad, brother or sister, colleague, friend, etc.? If not, I'd encourage you to find that time soon.
I've been looking forward to today this entire week. I knew that with first round of tests, work, and volunteer activities that I was going to running around DFW a lot. But I also knew that at the end of that tunnel, I had scheduled some time to recharge my battery.
This morning, I slept in until 7:45 a.m. Now, some people might not consider that sleeping in, but when you are waking up every morning at 5:00 a.m., almost three more hours of sleep seems like a dream come true. I got up this morning, enjoyed some Kenyan brew, some biscuits with my favorite peanut butter and syrup, went for a nice run, cleaned my room, and just spent some time by myself. And because of it, I'm completely recharged and ready to go back at it.
This has been one of the biggest lessons I've tried to apply to my life since returning from Africa. I realize there will be times when I'm moving at mach speed. That is just life. But I've learned to recognize those times and make sure I have some down time scheduled to recharge my battery and refill my tank.
Have you made some time recently to recharge your battery so that you can continue to be an effective mom or dad, brother or sister, colleague, friend, etc.? If not, I'd encourage you to find that time soon.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
FINAL THOUGHTS before heading home
I have not posted since Friday because we just returned from our safari in the Masai Mara late yesterday afternoon. The last few days have been AWESOME!! I feel like I’ve said that a lot on this trip, but I can honestly sit here and type that word again because every expectation I had for this trip has been met and exceeded.
On our two day safari in the plains and rolling hills of the Masai Mara, we saw the BIG 5 and much more. We saw Simba and Nala on Pride Rock, Pumba, and the rest of the gang. Okay….so we didn’t encounter Rafiki or Timon, but we did see a pride of lions napping, a momma cheetah and her two cubs, a leopard on the prowl, a pack of elephants, a dead elephant (must have been 2002 years old – sorry, Texas A&M reference), a “happy” rhino, gazelles, jackals, zebras, giraffes, and the really ruthless cape buffalo. I took more than 500 pictures of the landscape and all of the animals. I can’t wait to get back to the States, put them in a slide show, and then share them with you. Aside from our adventures in the Masai Mara Reserve, we camped at site owned and operated by the Masai tribe. On our last night, the tribesman built us a fire so that we could make s’mores. Jill suggested that I bring all of the ingredients from home so that we could share them with the native Kenyans joining us on the trip.
Have you ever built relationships over s’mores and a campfire?
We did and it was an incredible experience. Even the Masai tribesman joined us and loved the “sweets” (as they called it) that we served. With s’mores as our entry point, we launched into a conversation through the translation of Rogo, a native Kenyan on the trip with us, with the Masai tribesman – Baba (or “father”, a term of respect for someone who is older) and Morris (a 22 year old Masai warrior). For the next hour or so, we asked questions about each other’s culture. A couple highlights from our conversation:
- Masai men and women very early. Baba had a hard time understanding why I was not married at 28 years old. He said, “why do you travel to Kenya instead of looking for a wife?” It was really funny.
- Morris told us about the qualifications of manhood in the tribe. At 12 or 13, they go out into the forest and must kill a lion with a spear. Then, they return to the village with the lion’s mane and are circumcised. At that time, they can get married.
- A masai’s wealth is determined by how many head of cattle they own and how many kids and wives they have.
- The masai tribe has done a very good job at retaining their culture and traditions, but you could definitely pick up on the subtle differences in viewpoint between the older and younger man. It was interesting to see how the younger generation has more of a modern outlook on life.
I could go on for days about this conversation. If we ever sit down to talk and have some time, ask me about it. It was a huge highlight for me and the trip to the Mara.
Tonight, I board a plane back to the United States, but I expect to continue blogging about my experiences and what I learned from my time in Africa. During this whole trip, I’ve encouraged you (my blog readers) consider taking a risk on an adventure. I continue to hold fast to that message. For the past 12 days, I’ve been on an “adventure” that has taken me down rapids of a Kenyan river, in a matatu, into the slums with hurting people, to a rehabilitation clinic for kids with severe disabilities, into conversations with native Kenyans and Masai warriors, and to the plains of the Masai Mara. And with every adventure, every interaction, and in every experience, I’ve learned more about who I am and who God truly created me to be. I’ve been challenged. I’ve been stretched. And now I’m refreshed and rejuvenated and ready to return home.
Kwaheri from Kenya,
Burke (or “Booke” as they call me here in Kenya)
Friday, May 29, 2009
His Hands and Feet
The past two days of my time here in Africa have been some of the most challenging and most rewarding of my trip. On Wednesday and Thursday, we visited the Missionaries of Charity home for teenage girls with disabilities and the Visionary Mothers daycare center in the slums of Karibangi. In the United States, we see pictures and hear stories of kids in need in Africa, but all of those pictures and stories fall very short of seeing the need firsthand. When you are able to see it, hear it, touch it, and smell it, you are affected in a completely different way. I had to fight back tears as I watched girls who never knew and will never know what it feels like to walk, babies who will never see because of a bad case of the measles as an infant, and kids who musculoskeletal deformities will keep them from every escaping a wheel chair. But despite their challenges, more joy filled the rooms of those two places than a banquet room full of high flying CEOs enjoying a nice meal in a Ritz Carlton hotel.
For me, their challenges were paralyzing. For the first time in my life, I could not “fix” someone’s problem. In my mind, nothing that I did or could do over those two days would make any significant change in their lives. I experienced moments when all hope seemed lost. And then the Lord reminded me of a few simple truths. I don’t have to “fix” everything. All I can do is empty myself on a daily basis and share the love and hope that only He can provide.
I'll never forget what I saw the past two days. My emotional tank was on empty every night, but my experiences will be ones that I will continue to think about and process even after I return home.
I’ll never forget how I was touched by their smiles, their tears, and their laughter. I’ll never forget how the kids’ faces lit up when we delivered new toys and games to each of them. I’ll never forget their smiles when we put shoes on their feet for the first time. I’ll never forget how friendships were forged by the comfort of a new stuffed animal. And I’ll never forget how grateful they were for the things we brought, but even more grateful for the time and love we offered.
For me, their challenges were paralyzing. For the first time in my life, I could not “fix” someone’s problem. In my mind, nothing that I did or could do over those two days would make any significant change in their lives. I experienced moments when all hope seemed lost. And then the Lord reminded me of a few simple truths. I don’t have to “fix” everything. All I can do is empty myself on a daily basis and share the love and hope that only He can provide.
I'll never forget what I saw the past two days. My emotional tank was on empty every night, but my experiences will be ones that I will continue to think about and process even after I return home.
I’ll never forget how I was touched by their smiles, their tears, and their laughter. I’ll never forget how the kids’ faces lit up when we delivered new toys and games to each of them. I’ll never forget their smiles when we put shoes on their feet for the first time. I’ll never forget how friendships were forged by the comfort of a new stuffed animal. And I’ll never forget how grateful they were for the things we brought, but even more grateful for the time and love we offered.
YOU MAKE THE CALL?
In an earlier post, I talked a little about my first matatu ride on my first day in Kenya. Without a picture, it was very hard to describe. My friends suggested I compare it to a minivan (i.e. "mv") back in the United States. I'm bringing it to a vote by my Running the Race blog readers. Here is a picture of a matatu in Kenya:
Matatu or Minivan?
(please respond in the comments section)
(click on image to expand)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
A Birthday to Remember
This afternoon, we returned to Nairobi from our white water rafting trip. What an incredible way to celebrate a birthday! My day started with a wake up call – a melodious rendition of “Happy Birthday” sung by my friends, Chad and Jill. Jill made breakfast bread which was nicely decorated with 3 candles that I could not blow out on the first try – the first sign of aging.
After breakfast, we met our river guide at the local market and drove about 2 hours north to the campground where we stayed over night. We were very fortunate to be the only 3 guests at the campground and the only 3 people on the river yesterday. We had it all to ourselves.
I can’t even begin to put into words our trip down the river. In fact, I’m not even going to begin to try. Suffice it say, we maneuvered through some tough class II, III, IV rapids and even one class V rapid. It was an incredible adventure. We also “surfed” a rapid in our raft which was awesome until yours truly took one for the team and went overboard. (Side note: I later found out from our guide that the entire boat would have turned over if I had not willingly given my body. I’m just trying to remain humble. He also gave props to Jill and Chad for pulling some of the best surfing he had seen in a long time.)
Before we ended our crazy river trip, we plunged off a 30 ft waterfall. I’ve posted a couple pictures below. In my opinion, the pictures do not do any sort of justice to the height of that jump. It was VERY HIGH!! I enjoyed it so much that I did it 3 more times. Jill and Chad also participated with several jumps of their own.
A Moment of Reflection: As I was climbing the cliff time after time, all I could think was how the Lord created us for “adventure.” Now maybe plunging off 30 foot waterfalls is not your idea of adventure, but I do feel like He created us for something bigger than only what our mind thinks is possible. And along those lines, I think He delights when we experience that “adventure” and all of the joy that comes along with it.
Our trip down the river was huge success due in large part to our awesome guide, Jordan. This guy is a jack of all trades – a trained EMT, wild fire fighter in the U.S., white water guide, volunteer medic at a hospital in Kenya, and B.A.S.E. jumper (which he demonstrated for us last night) – at only 22 years old. He really gave us the insider’s trip down the river and allowed us to experience some things that most big groups don’t get to do.
When we arrived back at camp, we had an amazing lunch and dinner, some down time to sit and chat, a couple competitive games of UNO (the Draw Four Wild Card got me every time), some star gazing, and a surprise birthday celebration. A huge THANK YOU goes out the entire staff at Savage Camp and our new friends -- Harriet (our hostess) and Jordan. They really went above and beyond what we could have ever expected.
After breakfast, we met our river guide at the local market and drove about 2 hours north to the campground where we stayed over night. We were very fortunate to be the only 3 guests at the campground and the only 3 people on the river yesterday. We had it all to ourselves.
I can’t even begin to put into words our trip down the river. In fact, I’m not even going to begin to try. Suffice it say, we maneuvered through some tough class II, III, IV rapids and even one class V rapid. It was an incredible adventure. We also “surfed” a rapid in our raft which was awesome until yours truly took one for the team and went overboard. (Side note: I later found out from our guide that the entire boat would have turned over if I had not willingly given my body. I’m just trying to remain humble. He also gave props to Jill and Chad for pulling some of the best surfing he had seen in a long time.)
Before we ended our crazy river trip, we plunged off a 30 ft waterfall. I’ve posted a couple pictures below. In my opinion, the pictures do not do any sort of justice to the height of that jump. It was VERY HIGH!! I enjoyed it so much that I did it 3 more times. Jill and Chad also participated with several jumps of their own.
A Moment of Reflection: As I was climbing the cliff time after time, all I could think was how the Lord created us for “adventure.” Now maybe plunging off 30 foot waterfalls is not your idea of adventure, but I do feel like He created us for something bigger than only what our mind thinks is possible. And along those lines, I think He delights when we experience that “adventure” and all of the joy that comes along with it.
Our trip down the river was huge success due in large part to our awesome guide, Jordan. This guy is a jack of all trades – a trained EMT, wild fire fighter in the U.S., white water guide, volunteer medic at a hospital in Kenya, and B.A.S.E. jumper (which he demonstrated for us last night) – at only 22 years old. He really gave us the insider’s trip down the river and allowed us to experience some things that most big groups don’t get to do.
When we arrived back at camp, we had an amazing lunch and dinner, some down time to sit and chat, a couple competitive games of UNO (the Draw Four Wild Card got me every time), some star gazing, and a surprise birthday celebration. A huge THANK YOU goes out the entire staff at Savage Camp and our new friends -- Harriet (our hostess) and Jordan. They really went above and beyond what we could have ever expected.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
ULTIMATE!! - Day 2 of my Kenya Experience
It’s almost 10 p.m. here in Kenya. And since it is lunch time in the States, I thought I’d provide some great reading material for you during lunch.
We began the morning with a nice 15-20 minute walk to church -- Mamlaka Hill Chapel. We were led in worship by the S.A.L.T. college praise team (shout out to my small group back in Fort Worth). I think I clapped and danced more in our hour of praise and worship. It was authentic and true worship. It was incredible. I absolutely loved the freedom with which all the members of the congregation praised the Father. During that time, I had the opportunity to praise the Lord for the first time in Swahili. What an incredible experience!
After church, we returned home to a nice breakfast – homemade omelets cooked by our very own, Chad Olsen. They were superb which is why I’m giving him a public shout out. And then, we settled in for a nice afternoon nap. Life moves a little slower here in Kenya. It was refreshing to just be at home instead of having a million things to check off the to-do list before another week begins. At home, I normally rest by moving as if putting more stuff on my plate is actually rejuvenating. Today, I learned a great lesson that it is okay to stop and rest. The world doesn’t need me to keep going.
Later in the afternoon, we jumped in the car with some fellow ex-pats and headed northwest to the International School of Kenya for a friendly game of Ultimate Frisbee. Wait….friendly? Let me rephrase that – friendly and competitive game of Ultimate Frisbee. About 20-30 ex-pats from the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain get together every Sunday and play some “disc” and these guys and girls are good. They were not messing around and even have their own name (Nairobi Ultimate Frisbee Club), T-shirts, and discs with their club logo. We played for 3 solid hours stopping for only a total of 20 minutes for water breaks. I had a phenomenal time, but I’m completely wiped.
I have one final story that my friend wants me to share with you. After Frisbee, we visited the supermarket for some groceries and I had to use the public facilities (i.e. restrooms). I want share in depth details of that experience, but I will tell you I heard a song on the loud speaker that I’ve never heard in a public restroom before – “It Is Well With My Soul.” Interesting….very interesting. I might add it was comforting as well.
Tomorrow, we off to white water raft for a couple days. I will probably not be able to post again until we return midday on Tuesday. I’ll look forward to sharing more with you then.
Kwaheri (Goodbye in Swahili),
Burke
We began the morning with a nice 15-20 minute walk to church -- Mamlaka Hill Chapel. We were led in worship by the S.A.L.T. college praise team (shout out to my small group back in Fort Worth). I think I clapped and danced more in our hour of praise and worship. It was authentic and true worship. It was incredible. I absolutely loved the freedom with which all the members of the congregation praised the Father. During that time, I had the opportunity to praise the Lord for the first time in Swahili. What an incredible experience!
After church, we returned home to a nice breakfast – homemade omelets cooked by our very own, Chad Olsen. They were superb which is why I’m giving him a public shout out. And then, we settled in for a nice afternoon nap. Life moves a little slower here in Kenya. It was refreshing to just be at home instead of having a million things to check off the to-do list before another week begins. At home, I normally rest by moving as if putting more stuff on my plate is actually rejuvenating. Today, I learned a great lesson that it is okay to stop and rest. The world doesn’t need me to keep going.
Later in the afternoon, we jumped in the car with some fellow ex-pats and headed northwest to the International School of Kenya for a friendly game of Ultimate Frisbee. Wait….friendly? Let me rephrase that – friendly and competitive game of Ultimate Frisbee. About 20-30 ex-pats from the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain get together every Sunday and play some “disc” and these guys and girls are good. They were not messing around and even have their own name (Nairobi Ultimate Frisbee Club), T-shirts, and discs with their club logo. We played for 3 solid hours stopping for only a total of 20 minutes for water breaks. I had a phenomenal time, but I’m completely wiped.
I have one final story that my friend wants me to share with you. After Frisbee, we visited the supermarket for some groceries and I had to use the public facilities (i.e. restrooms). I want share in depth details of that experience, but I will tell you I heard a song on the loud speaker that I’ve never heard in a public restroom before – “It Is Well With My Soul.” Interesting….very interesting. I might add it was comforting as well.
Tomorrow, we off to white water raft for a couple days. I will probably not be able to post again until we return midday on Tuesday. I’ll look forward to sharing more with you then.
Kwaheri (Goodbye in Swahili),
Burke
Saturday, May 23, 2009
My Trip to Kenya - Day 1
I don't know how I did it, but I have safely avoided any and all side effects of jet lag. I woke up this morning refreshed and ready to go. We took it easy this morning, enjoyed some Kenyan coffee and some great "catch up" conversation.
About noon, we headed to a local cafe for another round of Kenyan coffee before walking over to the Maasai Market. The Maasai tribe is one of many here in Kenya and they set up a "market" in downtown every Saturday where you can go and buy arts, crafts, jewelry, and everything in between. I had a blast interacting with the Maasai people, bargaining with them, and walking out with some great gifts at great prices. And the fun was just beginning.
Then, we took a matatu, a van that is supposed to seat 8 people, to the local grocery store. Did we put 8 people in that van? No. We put about 14! WOW! I'm sitting here blogging and my friends are comparing it to a mini-van back in the United States. If you know me, I have a serious problems with so-called "mv." I'll take a picture in the next few days and post it for you to decide. I doubt you will respond with "mv."
After our matatu ride and grocery store visit, we returned back to the apartment complex where I met some really cute Kenyan children. We played frisbee with them for almost 3 hours and I loved every minute of them. McDonald even taught me how to do a Tanzanian dance. I'll post our debut dance video later in the week when I get some more bandwith. Until then, enjoy pictures of me and Rose (age 4), who loved when I picked her up high in the air. "Again, again," she would say. You will also see a picture of me and my dance partner, McDonald, after we got through breaking it down. I'm sure you can't wait to see our video.
Finally, we had dinner at Habesha, an Ethiopian food restaurant. I've never tried Ethiopian food in my life, but it was yummy in my tummy. We shared a plate of food along with the shekla. To eat the meal, you unroll the shekla like a paper towel, break off a piece and then pick up some of the many delicacies on the plate. I'll make sure to post some pictures of our meal later this weekend.
I can't believe I'm here for 11 more days. Tomorrow is church which should be absolutely incredible.
Friday, May 22, 2009
HOWDY from Africa!
It's current 8:30 p.m. local time here in Nairobi, Kenya and my body and bags have arrived safely. Back in the States, you are probably enjoying a nice Friday lunch.
Here are a couple brief notes on my travel experience before I sign off for the night to visit with my friends and get a good night's sleep.
Here are a couple brief notes on my travel experience before I sign off for the night to visit with my friends and get a good night's sleep.
- International travel is not as difficult as I was expecting. It's different, but not too unnerving. I did have to show my passport about 15 million times from the time I left Houston until I arrived in Kenya. I wanted to plaster that thing to my head I was having to show it so much.
- KLM Airlines are a bunch of rock stars. They served two meals on each flight and a dessert and tea. It was great. I didn't have to spend a dime of money from the time I left Houston.
- I traveled from Amsterdam to Kenya alongside a very nice European lady. She giggled every time I said "yes, ma'am" or "no ma'am." Her comment was "ohh, you Americans are so cordial and polite." (in a really neat English accent) I took that as a compliment.
- I flew into Kenya in the dark so I can't comment on the landscape, but I can comment on the unbelievable, out of control, heart stopping driving and traffic situation. It was incredible. You might be asking -- are there any traffic lights? Yes. Are they in working order? Yes. Do they follow them? Nope! We ran more than 5 red lights on our way to the apartment from the airport.
Well, my friend is about to beat if I don't shut this post down so I'm going to log off. I can't wait to share the rest of my visit to Africa with you.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Escalating Excitement
I feel like a little child on Christmas Eve. I can't explain how excited I am right now. I'm less than 24 hours away from embarking on an adventure that I'm sure will drastically change the way I view life, others, and the world I live in. Here are a couple things I'm really looking forward to:
Looking forward to sharing this experience with you
- Seeing Chad and Jill's faces when I arrive in Kenya on Friday
- Working at the children's orphanage and loving on some little Kenyan kidos
- White water rafting and the safari
- Being stretched and challenged throughout the entire trip
- Arriving back in the U.S. tired, changed, and ready to tell you all about my experience
Looking forward to sharing this experience with you
Thursday, May 14, 2009
A Chapter Closes; The Journey Continues
I've had one of the most stressful weeks, but it has also been one of the most rewarding weeks. I entered the week thinking to myself -- how am I'm going to get everything done? And I'm ending the week amazed at the strength I found through Christ to get through it all.
Today, I finished a chapter in the book I call "The Journey." My FINALS are now complete and I've turned all my focus to my trip to Kenya in ONE WEEK!! I'm so excited about my trip (and there will be plenty more on this blog about my trip), but I wanted to take a second and look back on the past year.
In two weeks, I will celebrate my 28th birthday. This past year, the Lord has taken me on one heck of ride. I remember sitting on a mountaintop in Scottsdale, AZ last year with my best friend trying to figure out where I could use my gifts and talents most effectively. He suggested the medical profession. I suggested that was the most "off the wall" idea I'd ever heard in my life. Now one year later, I've completed two semesters of intensive pre-requisite coursework for Physical Therapy school, I'm working at a sports rehabilitiation clinic, volunteering at two local hospitals, and getting ready to start working on my applications for PT school.
It has been an incredible journey. A journey where I've seen God's faithfulness, His plan for my life, and how He alone is sufficient when I struggle and when I succeed. I'm so excited to see where the journey continues and can't wait to continue sharing it with you on this blog.
What a difference a year makes?
Today, I finished a chapter in the book I call "The Journey." My FINALS are now complete and I've turned all my focus to my trip to Kenya in ONE WEEK!! I'm so excited about my trip (and there will be plenty more on this blog about my trip), but I wanted to take a second and look back on the past year.
In two weeks, I will celebrate my 28th birthday. This past year, the Lord has taken me on one heck of ride. I remember sitting on a mountaintop in Scottsdale, AZ last year with my best friend trying to figure out where I could use my gifts and talents most effectively. He suggested the medical profession. I suggested that was the most "off the wall" idea I'd ever heard in my life. Now one year later, I've completed two semesters of intensive pre-requisite coursework for Physical Therapy school, I'm working at a sports rehabilitiation clinic, volunteering at two local hospitals, and getting ready to start working on my applications for PT school.
It has been an incredible journey. A journey where I've seen God's faithfulness, His plan for my life, and how He alone is sufficient when I struggle and when I succeed. I'm so excited to see where the journey continues and can't wait to continue sharing it with you on this blog.
What a difference a year makes?
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day, Momma
She loves me and my family unconditionally. She models Christ's love on a daily basis to everyone around her. She is quick to serve and slow to take credit for the work. She has courage in the face of adversity. She raised two boys and knows more about the game of baseball than most women will ever know. She is always willing to put a hot meal on the table when I come home to visit. She is a scheduler and planner and has managed to pass that personality type down to her son. She loves people and chances are you will meet someone who knows her every time you go out in public. She always knows when to make a timely phone call or send a letter to let you know she loves you when you are having a bad day. She is willing to stand in support of her husband and two boys through thick and thin. She loves being a grandmother and never misses a chance to pick something for her granddaughters when she goes to Target. She bleeds maroon and loves being an Aggie mom. She is always on the move and doesn't show signs of stopping soon. She is always willing to go above and beyond what you normally expect. She is my mom. She is one of my biggest fans and she means the world to me.I thank God every day for the blessing she has been in my life.
Momma, I love you more than words can adequately express!! Happy Mother's Day!!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
No Plan, No Agenda
Recently, my life has been governed by my day planner. Everyday chalked full with school, work, volunteering, studying, social engagements, etc. And although I find a therapeutic benefit to having my life in order, I sometimes want to break out of the mold and do something spontaneous. So yesterday morning, I strapped on my running shoes and took off. I planned on going out for a short 3 mile run, but instead, end up running about 6 1/2 miles at a sub 8 minute mile pace. It was, by far, the biggest stress relief of my week. It was so much fun to run freely in the Keller countryside without an iPod, taking in the scenery, listening to the birds and roosters crowing, and sorting out life along the way.
I think we need times like these. Times where we can unplug and disconnect from the world, even if it is 45 minutes on a run through the countryside.
How do you "disconnect"? Do you find it freeing to get out and do something spontaneous every once in a while or does that drive you up a wall?
I think we need times like these. Times where we can unplug and disconnect from the world, even if it is 45 minutes on a run through the countryside.
How do you "disconnect"? Do you find it freeing to get out and do something spontaneous every once in a while or does that drive you up a wall?
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Rewind or Fast Forward?
The last 24 hours have not been my finest moments. I've had one of those weeks where nothing seems to be going right and everything seems to be going wrong. I can't figure out whether I want to hit the "rewind/redo" button or "fast forward" button.
If you had a chance to rewind or fast forward your life, which would you choose?
I have to admit, I've been very frustrated the entire week feeling like my best laid plans are headed right for the sewer system. A friend of mine reminded me last night that "God has an alternate plan for my plan B." So true....so tough to swallow right now.
Another exercise in learning to live in the moment and persevere for God's glory~
If you had a chance to rewind or fast forward your life, which would you choose?
I have to admit, I've been very frustrated the entire week feeling like my best laid plans are headed right for the sewer system. A friend of mine reminded me last night that "God has an alternate plan for my plan B." So true....so tough to swallow right now.
Another exercise in learning to live in the moment and persevere for God's glory~
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Singing in the Rain
My first post back from my recent blog hiatus will not have much substance. However, I needed to share my new experience. This morning, I walked on a college campus in the rain WITH AN UMBRELLA!! You are probably thinking that is not a novel concept and it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that is a good choice, but it was earth shattering for me. We were not allowed to use umbrellas while in uniform in the Corps. So when it rained, we trudged through it and had nothing but a wet uniform to show for it. Gone are the days of stinky polyester uniforms. I'll be using an umbrella from now on.
HAVE A GREAT DAY!!
Editor's note: More substantive posts coming soon.
HAVE A GREAT DAY!!
Editor's note: More substantive posts coming soon.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Keepin' the Journey in Focus and the Goal in Perspective
Yesterday, I felt overwhelmed with life. I had one of those days when I felt like life was demanding too much and I was unable to provide. As a guy with a type A personality, I've struggled with this feeling my entire life. It is not until I take a step back and put everything in perspective that I'm able to work through the issue by placing my complete reliance and trust in Christ.
Last night, the Lord used a friend of mine who encouraged me to stop, take a few steps back, reflect, then move forward and continue to hold the course. His encouragement, "it's more about the journey than the result." What a powerful statement. What a powerful testimony to the numerous friends and my phenomenal family who are walking through this journey with me.
I need to stop more often and make sure I'm keeping the journey in focus and goal in perspective. If not, I'm going to continue to carry unneccessary burdens that the Lord wants to carry for me.
Last night, the Lord used a friend of mine who encouraged me to stop, take a few steps back, reflect, then move forward and continue to hold the course. His encouragement, "it's more about the journey than the result." What a powerful statement. What a powerful testimony to the numerous friends and my phenomenal family who are walking through this journey with me.
I need to stop more often and make sure I'm keeping the journey in focus and goal in perspective. If not, I'm going to continue to carry unneccessary burdens that the Lord wants to carry for me.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Waiting
This weekend my parents and grandparents came up to celebrate my aunt's birthday and grandparents' 55th wedding anniversary. Yes, you read that correctly -- 55. I had a great time hanging out with the fam. Last night after dinner, we sat down for a family movie -- Fireproof. If you have not seen it, I highly recommend it.
But that's not what this post is about. It's about the discipline of waiting.
John Waller recorded a song played in the movie called "Waiting" (my new theme song). It struck a chord with me because the Lord taught me that very same message early in the week and brought it home with this song. Here are the lyrics to the song if you have not heard it before.
The last line of the second verse states, "I'll be running the race even while I wait" (how fitting for this blog). No longer will I sit around idle wondering when the Lord is going to give me what I'm asking for. Instead, I'm going to keep running the race each and every day, seeking and serving Him with everything I've got.
What is the Lord asking you to wait on? Do you have the patience and perseverence to continue running the race while you wait?
But that's not what this post is about. It's about the discipline of waiting.
John Waller recorded a song played in the movie called "Waiting" (my new theme song). It struck a chord with me because the Lord taught me that very same message early in the week and brought it home with this song. Here are the lyrics to the song if you have not heard it before.
I'm waiting.
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident.
Taking every step in obedience.
While I'm waiting I will serve You.
While I'm waiting I will worship.
While I'm waiting I will not faint.
I'll be running the race even while I wait.
I'm waiting.
I'm waiting on You, Lord.
And I am peaceful.
I'm waiting on You, Lord.
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord
I'm confident that there are areas in all of our lives where we are waiting on the Lord to work. We want him to move us to a new place, we need a new job, we want Him to introduce us to our future spouse, we want Him to heal a broken relationship or any number of other things. But sometimes He wants us to WAIT -- to patiently wait for His good and perfect timing.
The last line of the second verse states, "I'll be running the race even while I wait" (how fitting for this blog). No longer will I sit around idle wondering when the Lord is going to give me what I'm asking for. Instead, I'm going to keep running the race each and every day, seeking and serving Him with everything I've got.
What is the Lord asking you to wait on? Do you have the patience and perseverence to continue running the race while you wait?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Memories
Last night, I made a flying trip to Houston for an informational session at BCM for PA school. While I was in town, I attended a Westside High School Freshman YoungLife club. Just being in the area and being around the kids brought back so many wonderful memories of my time in Houston, TX. Last night, many of the kids Will, Heather, Julie, and I took to Frontier Ranch in 2007 were up in front of the freshman as leaders. It was cool to watch!!
I think a lot of times we fail to stop for a minute and remember or think on all of the wonderful things the Lord is doing in our lives on a daily basis. It is not until we are away from those things or they are taken away that we truly realize how precious they really were.
Over the course of three years, I was able to meet and get to know a lot of kids who walked the halls of Westside High School. I got the chance to watch them struggle and succeed; experience life -- good and bad; mature and grow up; and finally, graduate and head off to college. It was a special time in their lives and, little did they know, it was a special time in mine as well.
I'll never be able to replace the memories of chaufering car loads of guys all over Houston, traveling to watch them play baseball or wrestle, the countless dinners with my "extreme brothers" at Raising Canes, talking about life over the grill with my campaigner guys, or being with a high school senior as he shared that he had accepted Christ. I could list countless other memories of my time serving with YoungLife in Houston, but I'll probably need to think about writing a book.
Last night reminded me "stop" more often and remember the countless ways the Lord has faithfully worked and continues to work in my life.
(Funny side note: The kids were quick to remind me about "Coach Kilwalsky" and "Java Joe" and his fellow Starbucks' Superhero, "Mocha Choca Latte." I guess you never grow out of your YoungLife skit characters.)
I think a lot of times we fail to stop for a minute and remember or think on all of the wonderful things the Lord is doing in our lives on a daily basis. It is not until we are away from those things or they are taken away that we truly realize how precious they really were.
Over the course of three years, I was able to meet and get to know a lot of kids who walked the halls of Westside High School. I got the chance to watch them struggle and succeed; experience life -- good and bad; mature and grow up; and finally, graduate and head off to college. It was a special time in their lives and, little did they know, it was a special time in mine as well.
I'll never be able to replace the memories of chaufering car loads of guys all over Houston, traveling to watch them play baseball or wrestle, the countless dinners with my "extreme brothers" at Raising Canes, talking about life over the grill with my campaigner guys, or being with a high school senior as he shared that he had accepted Christ. I could list countless other memories of my time serving with YoungLife in Houston, but I'll probably need to think about writing a book.
Last night reminded me "stop" more often and remember the countless ways the Lord has faithfully worked and continues to work in my life.
(Funny side note: The kids were quick to remind me about "Coach Kilwalsky" and "Java Joe" and his fellow Starbucks' Superhero, "Mocha Choca Latte." I guess you never grow out of your YoungLife skit characters.)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Now Boarding KLM Flight #662...
....with service from Houston Intercontinental Airport to Amsterdam, Netherlands.
That will be the public address announcement that I will hear in less than 100 days. And after my "short" flight to Amsterdam, I'll be boarding another KLM bird headed to Nairobi, Kenya to visit my best friend, Chad, and the love of his life, Jill.
That will be the public address announcement that I will hear in less than 100 days. And after my "short" flight to Amsterdam, I'll be boarding another KLM bird headed to Nairobi, Kenya to visit my best friend, Chad, and the love of his life, Jill.
I cannot tell you how excited I am about my trip in late May -- it's uncontainable at times. I've come a long way from seeing the realization of traveling to Kenya slip away to having a flight book and plans beginning to fall into place. This will be my first time to travel abroad and I'm so excited about visiting a country that has been on my heart for a long, long time.
Chad and Jill are busy planning a blockbuster schedule for my time over in Kenya. I can't wait til the final copy shows up in my inbox, but until then, Chad gave me a little preview. The preliminary agenda includes a possible safari, Kenyan beaches, volunteering, hiking, and possibly some inter-country travel. Right now, I don't foresee any marathon training runs with the Kenyan athletes, but if I do get the chance, you better believe I will be up for the challenge. My blog will definitely be heating up prior to, during, and after my trip so stay tuned. I will be sharing as much as my Internet connection will allow me.
Hopefully, this will be the first of many trips over to Africa. While I'm over there, I hope to scout out the area a little bit, so that I can potentially return in the future on a medical mission trip.
Running the Race in Kenya!!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Integrity Weekend Retreat
This past weekend, I headed south to Glen Rose, Texas and Riverbend Retreat Center for an Integrity Men's Retreat. Over the weekend, we look at 3 areas of integrity: our professional lives, our relationships, and our spiritual lives. It was a great time to connect with other guys in the church, learn from and take in some wisdom from older men in my church, and just escape life for a couple of days.
I think we all need those times when we can escape "life" and enjoy some time away to reflect and recharge our batteries.
One of the points that stuck out to me on the retreat was our discussion on John 15 and striving for fruitfulness. The Lord's entire purpose for our lives is to produce fruit for His kingdom and His glory. This is where we will find fulfillment in life.
So....
Do you wake up every morning with this mindset?
-or -
Are you similar to me, in that, you see your days as a never ending to do list?
Are you asking the Lord to prune you so that you can produce more fruit?
-or-
Are you asking Him to remove you from situations because it's uncomfortable or causing pain?
I don't believe there is a "quick fix" or "easy answer" to any of these questions, nor do I see myself perfecting this area of my life anytime soon. However, I can start heading down that path and ask the Lord to change my mindset and heart along the way.
I think we all need those times when we can escape "life" and enjoy some time away to reflect and recharge our batteries.
One of the points that stuck out to me on the retreat was our discussion on John 15 and striving for fruitfulness. The Lord's entire purpose for our lives is to produce fruit for His kingdom and His glory. This is where we will find fulfillment in life.
So....
Do you wake up every morning with this mindset?
-or -
Are you similar to me, in that, you see your days as a never ending to do list?
Are you asking the Lord to prune you so that you can produce more fruit?
-or-
Are you asking Him to remove you from situations because it's uncomfortable or causing pain?
I don't believe there is a "quick fix" or "easy answer" to any of these questions, nor do I see myself perfecting this area of my life anytime soon. However, I can start heading down that path and ask the Lord to change my mindset and heart along the way.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Running the Race's "Top 20"
There is a "viral" post floating around Facebook where if you are one of 25 people tagged, you must reply back and post 25 things that people might not know about you. Personally, I have learned some very interesting things about my friends through these posts; however, I have not responded myself. So the wait is over and I'm caving into peer pressure, but my list has a little twist.
Without further ado, here are the top 20 things (I like to be unique) you may or may not know about me.
1. My family means the world to me. Between both sets of grandparents and my parents, I have more than 100 years of marriage experience to draw from.
2. My first half marathon entry was a Christmas present from a friend. He asked me to run in the Austin half marathon in February 2003 to celebrate our last semester at Texas A&M. Now, six half marathons and six full marathons later, I'm still hooked and still running.
3. I was born on Memorial Day 1981. Every so often (like this year), my birthday will fall on Memorial Day.
4. My 16th birthday gift was a trip to the College World Series in Omaha, NE with my dad. I will never forget that trip for as long as I live....and if you are wondering, I did get a car too.
5. I was 5'0 tall when I graduated from high school. And even though I've grown 10 inches since then, some of my friends still call me "Little Guy."
6. I have several nicknames. I guess Burke is really hard to pronounce. Here are a couple: Bucky, Burkle, Burkey (only reserved for my momma), Little Guy, Puppy, Stoney, White Kenyan, PB, and B Dub, and Extreme Brother (reserved for a couple of my YoungLife kids).
7. I've escaped a bus fire returning from a YoungLife trip to Windy Gap, NC in the summer of 2005.
8. I love to travel and visit my friends. I'm preparing for my first overseas trip this coming May. I'll share more on this blog soon!!
9. Birthdays and anniversaries are a big deal to me. I really like celebrating my friends and family's big days and marriage milestones.
10. I like doing things that other people think are absolutely crazy like flying from New York to Arizona to interview for a job the day after a marathon, like traveling to Galveston from College Station just to see the sunrise and then making it back for my first class.
11. My running playlist on my iPod consists mostly of cheesy love ballads because it helps keep my heart rate down while I run. I only have a few fast songs on my iPod for that last kick home.
12. Photography is a hobby that I'd like to pursue as I get older. I've got the camera -- now I just need to invest in learning how to use it effectively.
13. Thirteen is my favorite number. It's also the favorite number of one of my good friends. Rock and Stone shout out.
14. I don't watch much TV, but my DVR is always set to record The Office and Grey's Anatomy. I love when I can watch those shows without the commercials.
15. I'm a new uncle and I'm on a quest to assert myself as the Best Uncle in the World. I even make my 8 year old niece tell me that before she gets off the phone with me.
16. I coached two Little League baseball teams while I was out in Scottsdale. By far, some of the greastest memories of my time in Arizona. I can't wait to coach again after I get out of school.
17. During one YoungLife skit, I ate sardines, turkey and dressing baby food, and washed it down with prune juice. Can you say Fear Factor?
18. I was voted "Most Spirited" in my high school graduating class. Does this title fit me?
19. When I was growing up, I dreamed about being the pilot of Air Force One. Some kids dream of being fire fighters or police officers or sports stars, not me.
20. I'm extremely OCD about my closet. My clothes are evenly spaced and arranged in ROYGBIV order and also broken up into categories -- short sleeves, polos, button downs, slacks and blue jeans. I also use white plastic hangers and wooden hangers for my nicer shirts and suits.
Without further ado, here are the top 20 things (I like to be unique) you may or may not know about me.
1. My family means the world to me. Between both sets of grandparents and my parents, I have more than 100 years of marriage experience to draw from.
2. My first half marathon entry was a Christmas present from a friend. He asked me to run in the Austin half marathon in February 2003 to celebrate our last semester at Texas A&M. Now, six half marathons and six full marathons later, I'm still hooked and still running.
3. I was born on Memorial Day 1981. Every so often (like this year), my birthday will fall on Memorial Day.
4. My 16th birthday gift was a trip to the College World Series in Omaha, NE with my dad. I will never forget that trip for as long as I live....and if you are wondering, I did get a car too.
5. I was 5'0 tall when I graduated from high school. And even though I've grown 10 inches since then, some of my friends still call me "Little Guy."
6. I have several nicknames. I guess Burke is really hard to pronounce. Here are a couple: Bucky, Burkle, Burkey (only reserved for my momma), Little Guy, Puppy, Stoney, White Kenyan, PB, and B Dub, and Extreme Brother (reserved for a couple of my YoungLife kids).
7. I've escaped a bus fire returning from a YoungLife trip to Windy Gap, NC in the summer of 2005.
8. I love to travel and visit my friends. I'm preparing for my first overseas trip this coming May. I'll share more on this blog soon!!
9. Birthdays and anniversaries are a big deal to me. I really like celebrating my friends and family's big days and marriage milestones.
10. I like doing things that other people think are absolutely crazy like flying from New York to Arizona to interview for a job the day after a marathon, like traveling to Galveston from College Station just to see the sunrise and then making it back for my first class.
11. My running playlist on my iPod consists mostly of cheesy love ballads because it helps keep my heart rate down while I run. I only have a few fast songs on my iPod for that last kick home.
12. Photography is a hobby that I'd like to pursue as I get older. I've got the camera -- now I just need to invest in learning how to use it effectively.
13. Thirteen is my favorite number. It's also the favorite number of one of my good friends. Rock and Stone shout out.
14. I don't watch much TV, but my DVR is always set to record The Office and Grey's Anatomy. I love when I can watch those shows without the commercials.
15. I'm a new uncle and I'm on a quest to assert myself as the Best Uncle in the World. I even make my 8 year old niece tell me that before she gets off the phone with me.
16. I coached two Little League baseball teams while I was out in Scottsdale. By far, some of the greastest memories of my time in Arizona. I can't wait to coach again after I get out of school.
17. During one YoungLife skit, I ate sardines, turkey and dressing baby food, and washed it down with prune juice. Can you say Fear Factor?
18. I was voted "Most Spirited" in my high school graduating class. Does this title fit me?
19. When I was growing up, I dreamed about being the pilot of Air Force One. Some kids dream of being fire fighters or police officers or sports stars, not me.
20. I'm extremely OCD about my closet. My clothes are evenly spaced and arranged in ROYGBIV order and also broken up into categories -- short sleeves, polos, button downs, slacks and blue jeans. I also use white plastic hangers and wooden hangers for my nicer shirts and suits.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Rescuing Running the Race
Either my blog flat lined or it was just on life support? In any event, I'm back after a long, long absence. What have I been doing for a whole month? If I could sum it all up in one sentence, I'd say -- "I've been doing lots of things I enjoy." I've celebrated Christmas with my family, held my niece and changed her stinky diapers, schooled my niece in Guitar Hero, rung in the New Year with friends, worked at the physical therapy clinic, volunteered at a children's hospital in DFW, visited my best friend and his wife in the Hill Country, started a new semester at school, received a brand new computer, celebrated my cousin's birthday, had lunch with one of my old YoungLife kids, and ran a marathon.
It was a great Christmas break, but I'm glad to be getting back into a routine. I just finished a planning session which I'm sure will continue for the remainder of the week as I attempt to get organized for the semester.
Ohh....and since I mentioned it first on this blog, I thought I might give you an update on the marathon. It was an absolute blast! I had four very special people supporting me, cheering for me, and even running with me last weekend. Thank you - Mike and Karee and Justin and Jennifer!! I finished the race in 3 hours and 30 minutes. The time was not good enough for Boston, but my time was 15 minutes faster than my previous best in the marathon. I'm planning a special post on my experience for later this week. Check back for full coverage and some pictures.
Looking forward to the year -- and have some great conversations on this blog!!
It was a great Christmas break, but I'm glad to be getting back into a routine. I just finished a planning session which I'm sure will continue for the remainder of the week as I attempt to get organized for the semester.
Ohh....and since I mentioned it first on this blog, I thought I might give you an update on the marathon. It was an absolute blast! I had four very special people supporting me, cheering for me, and even running with me last weekend. Thank you - Mike and Karee and Justin and Jennifer!! I finished the race in 3 hours and 30 minutes. The time was not good enough for Boston, but my time was 15 minutes faster than my previous best in the marathon. I'm planning a special post on my experience for later this week. Check back for full coverage and some pictures.
Looking forward to the year -- and have some great conversations on this blog!!
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