*Note: this blog is an excerpt from a blog on www.myspace.com/willetonline - but this was my favorite part :)
I am currently in the van on our 22 hour drive home from Nebraska to Maryland. Unfortunately, a blizzard quickly moved into Iowa overnight, and the last night of the tour had to be cancelled - but Iowa, we shall return soon! :)
Of course, it wouldn't be the Christmas tour if we didn't have some sort of vehicle trouble. If you remember last year, our transmission blew leaving us stranded for 5 days in Ohio. Last night, we left Nebraska to try to beat the snow and had been driving for about 4 hours when we lost all power, brakes, acceleration, lights, etc and slowly drifted to the side of the road in the snow. We had blown our alternator and were stuck :( After being on hold with AAA for an hour, we called 911 to get help because it was -5 degrees and snow was starting to fall. Long story short, we got towed, slept in a hotel for a few hours while the van got fixed and are back on the road.
Special thanks to the policeman that stopped to ask us why we didn't have our hazard lights on while we were on the shoulder. (Note: we did have a flare out behind us that another cop had given us in Pennsylvania - but it was starting to burn out - this is an important part of the story)....
I would like to point out that
1. When you blow an alternator - you very rarely have any power in your vehicle at all and ...
2. Don't ever ask a cop for a flare because we did and he replied saying "I can't give them to you because police flares are special."
Really?????????? ........like....Seriously?!!!????? Funny - because the one we were using was from a cop!
(sorry - a little bitter and a little sleep deprived from this long drive....but nonetheless...really?)
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Red dragon nativity set...
Last night, I couldn't sleep (something about Ohio I guess...seems to happen every time I stay in the state), so I put on my ipod and listened to a podcast by John Eldredge (www.ransomedheart.com/). This particular podcast was about Christmas and how a lot of times we focus so much on Jesus and the "peaceful" nativity scene that we miss what was actually taking place during the birth of our Saviour.
As we go on to read in Revelation, we discover that the birth of Christ is about Jesus, but it also about our rescue! Revelation 12:4b-12:6 says,
"The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that he might devour her child the moment it was born. She gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter. And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne. The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days."
Hello! Do you have a red dragon with seven heads, ten horns and seven crowns on his heads with a tail that could sweep a third of the stars out of the sky set up on your mantle next to your nativity set? (Revelation 12:3) I sure don't! And if I did, I think I might lose some Christmas party guests the next time we have people over. But, that was the reality of Jesus' birth. He was coming to rescue us from sin and while he was coming to earth, war was breaking out in heaven, and Satan was defeated by the angels. Brings about a whole new meaning to Christmas carols about angels....
This Christmas, recognize Jesus in the manger, but also recognize the great fight for our rescue! Hopefully it will bring about a deeper personal reflection this season.
As we go on to read in Revelation, we discover that the birth of Christ is about Jesus, but it also about our rescue! Revelation 12:4b-12:6 says,
"The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that he might devour her child the moment it was born. She gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter. And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne. The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days."
Hello! Do you have a red dragon with seven heads, ten horns and seven crowns on his heads with a tail that could sweep a third of the stars out of the sky set up on your mantle next to your nativity set? (Revelation 12:3) I sure don't! And if I did, I think I might lose some Christmas party guests the next time we have people over. But, that was the reality of Jesus' birth. He was coming to rescue us from sin and while he was coming to earth, war was breaking out in heaven, and Satan was defeated by the angels. Brings about a whole new meaning to Christmas carols about angels....
This Christmas, recognize Jesus in the manger, but also recognize the great fight for our rescue! Hopefully it will bring about a deeper personal reflection this season.
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Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Homeless in Ohio...
Yesterday, we were on the road traveling to Sidney, OH. We were pulling off at an exit to grab something for lunch when we spotted a man and a woman on the sidewalk with a sign that said "homeless, please help." As we sat at the stoplight, I asked Justin to grab any food he could find from the back of the van. We pulled up a bit and safely pulled over on the shoulder. I walked up to the couple and asked them if they could use some food. They graciously received it and we began talking a little.
I asked them if they were ok and if they needed anything else. They told me about how he was trying to find a job, and came to live with his brother, however, his brother moved and left them on the street. Unfortunately, as they talked, I could smell alcohol on their breath, but I wasn't going to judge them - especially without knowing the extent of their situation.
I told them that I was sorry I couldn't do more, but that I would be praying for them. We shook hands and I walked back to the van. My prayers go out for them tonight as the temperature outside dips below 30 degrees.
I normally miss these kind of people, but today, God reminded me to notice those around me - especially those in need, and he provided an opportunity for me to serve them. I wish I could have done more. Maybe I could have. But my prayer is that a seed was planted and I am asking God to grow it....
I asked them if they were ok and if they needed anything else. They told me about how he was trying to find a job, and came to live with his brother, however, his brother moved and left them on the street. Unfortunately, as they talked, I could smell alcohol on their breath, but I wasn't going to judge them - especially without knowing the extent of their situation.
I told them that I was sorry I couldn't do more, but that I would be praying for them. We shook hands and I walked back to the van. My prayers go out for them tonight as the temperature outside dips below 30 degrees.
I normally miss these kind of people, but today, God reminded me to notice those around me - especially those in need, and he provided an opportunity for me to serve them. I wish I could have done more. Maybe I could have. But my prayer is that a seed was planted and I am asking God to grow it....
Sunday, December 7, 2008
New blog starting in 2009
I have been a bad "blogger" the past week as I haven't taken time to write in several days. The reason however, is because I have been finalizing an agreement with a new coffee company called LAND OF 1000 HILLS coffee that my Dad actually introduced me to.
Starting next year, I will be writing weekly blogs for their site on poverty related issues. I am looking forward to partnering with a company that is using products, job opportunities, and resources to help fight the war on poverty.
Check out DRINKCOFFEEDOGOOD.COM and consider getting a bag for the holidays....
Greetings from the snow covered roads on the 3RD ANNUAL WILLET SNOW ON CHRISTMAS? TOUR :)
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Christmas Tree
This past weekend, I was home in MD with my wife before the start of our Christmas tour. For the past few years, we have been getting our Christmas tree from a local farm in Westminster, MD.
The first year, we traveled to the farm and cut down the perfect tree. As we loaded the tree in the car, we realized that there was no one or no where to pay for the tree. There was a sign that said "CUT YOUR OWN TREE FOR $20", however, we didn't feel safe just leaving a $20 bill under a rock. We drove down the farm lane and to some of the neighbors houses to find someone, however, were unsuccessful in finding someone to pay.
Therefore, we devised a plan. We decided that over the next few years, we will return to the same farm and tip the farmer $5 extra each year for the next 4 years until the tree is paid off. Each year we have done it, and each year he always says there is no need to "tip" him, to which we reply, " No, you don't understand..." :) We may have created our own payment plan... however, it works, and the farmer still gets his money. Take a look at this year's tree.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
An Ethiopian Thanksgiving meal
Every Tuesday that I am home from touring with WILLET, I attend a small group Bible study called a "cell group" as part of my home church, Quest Community Church. We pray together, study scripture, and discuss the sermon from the previous week. We also serve in the community on various projects and help families in need.
This past week, our friends hosted a "pre-thanksgiving" meal at their home. As we sat down to pray, I noticed that there was no silverware to eat with? As we prepared to eat, we also realized that we were not about to take part in a traditional turkey dinner. We were engaging in an Ethiopian tradition of Injera and wot! I had tasted this for the first time last february in Africa, and vowed to never eat it again :) .
We tried our best to honor the Ethiopian custom of using only our right hand to eat with, and did quite well eating the injera and wot. It got a bit messy when we tried to scoop salad and mashed potatoes using only our hand, however, it made for a great time of fellowship. Below are some pictures of this unique thanksgiving meal!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Baltimore Ravens vs. Philadelphia Eagles
This week, WILLET is off the road for a week vacation over Thanksgiving before the Christmas tour starts on Black Friday. I have enjoyed time with family and being home for a few days.
This past Sunday, I had the opportunity to attend a BALTIMORE RAVENS game with my good friend, and brother-in-law, Tony. I grew up and recently bought a home in Westminster, MD, the town where the Ravens hold their annual training camp. Therefore, I show my home team support for a great team, and it was amazing to be able to attend my first NFL game at their home stadium. Below are some pictures from the game.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Fighting extreme poverty
If you have ever attended a WILLET concert, or talked to any of the band members in person, you have most likely heard stories of our trip to Ethiopia, Africa, and our work with FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY. As extreme poverty finally receives more attention by the public and media, the organizations that people can get involved with are endless. I constantly read about new projects, funds and missions from people around the country, and many of them have extremely worthy causes. I am very grateful for their selfless pursuit of raising awareness and support for less-fortunate children.
As I learn of the numerous possibilities of ways to get involved in fighting extreme poverty, I am continually thankful to be an artist representative for an organization that I truly believe in. Food for the Hungry is committed to caring for the physical and spiritual needs of hungry children in over 26 countries! They do not only respond immediately to crisis situations providing relief, but they build relationships, community and sustainability in countries through development.
Single projects such as funding for a clean-water well, new school building, or gifts for Christmas are definitely notable causes, however, I am a firm believer in child sponsorship and the effect that it can have on a single child and its family in a 3rd world country. For $32 a month, we are able to completely transform the life of a child that has dreams and passions just like the rest of us, but is just waiting for an opportunity to shine! I know this because I have experienced it first hand when I had the opportunity to visit the children that I sponsor.
This holiday season, would you consider bringing Hope to a child in need? Your small contribution of about $1 / day will become more of a blessing to you and your family then a financial obligation. It may take some sacrifice on your part, but the work that is being done by fellow believers in Ethiopia, Africa is well worth it as we see thousands of lives transformed for the glory of God....one at a time.
Consider joining 500+ other people around the country who have sponsored children over the past 2 years. Start your adventure now!
As I learn of the numerous possibilities of ways to get involved in fighting extreme poverty, I am continually thankful to be an artist representative for an organization that I truly believe in. Food for the Hungry is committed to caring for the physical and spiritual needs of hungry children in over 26 countries! They do not only respond immediately to crisis situations providing relief, but they build relationships, community and sustainability in countries through development.
Single projects such as funding for a clean-water well, new school building, or gifts for Christmas are definitely notable causes, however, I am a firm believer in child sponsorship and the effect that it can have on a single child and its family in a 3rd world country. For $32 a month, we are able to completely transform the life of a child that has dreams and passions just like the rest of us, but is just waiting for an opportunity to shine! I know this because I have experienced it first hand when I had the opportunity to visit the children that I sponsor.
This holiday season, would you consider bringing Hope to a child in need? Your small contribution of about $1 / day will become more of a blessing to you and your family then a financial obligation. It may take some sacrifice on your part, but the work that is being done by fellow believers in Ethiopia, Africa is well worth it as we see thousands of lives transformed for the glory of God....one at a time.
Consider joining 500+ other people around the country who have sponsored children over the past 2 years. Start your adventure now!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Balance
The world seems quiet tonight as I put on a pair of jogging pants, a hoodie, and my old pair of converse all-stars to take a run out in the streets of Ohio on an off night on tour. I pull out my ipod and add a few Project 86 songs to my playlist as I begin to stretch in the cold, autumn air. I just finished reading a blog by the lead singer for Project 86, Andrew Schwab, (which is why I am eager to listen to them) and am still pondering a statement that he made about how his mind always seems clearer for writing and thinking while on an airplane. I can relate to trying to "clear my mind", as one of my intentions in running this late at night was to simply do that; clear my mind.
It's not as though I have any major trials or conflicts that I am currently experiencing, but more of a need to spend some time alone with God. In fact, halfway through my late evening jog in the streets, I turned off one of my favorite bands and took out my headphones in attempt to "hear" God more clearly. You see, for the past 3 years as I have toured the country with my brothers in WILLET,I have often found myself in a never-ending search for "balance" in my life. I am a very "driven" person, and can be easily motivated to strive at reaching goals. Sometimes those goals are musical, spiritual, physical, emotional and even financial. Other times, they are related to a specific cause, or a day-to-day activity. Regardless of the final result, I draw inspiration from seeing a great photo, watching an intriguing film, hearing a well-written song, or reading a fantastic article. I find however, as quickly as I am motivated, I can also lose interest with the snap of a finger as well.
The balance that I am searching for is unknown at this point in my life. I absolutely love what God has called me to do as I travel the country, and now the world, sharing my heart about orphaned children in Africa. The confusion sets in however, when I begin to evaluate what I spend a majority of my time on. You see, I am a follower of Jesus first. (Notice I didn't use the word "christian" as that has a very "loose" meaning now days.) Secondly, I am a husband. A very happy and undeserving husband at that. A husband to a beautiful wife that I had the privilege of meeting, dating for 5 years as my first girlfriend, and marrying 2 and a half years ago. Thirdly, I am a member of a God-loving family that I am proud to be a part of. A family that serves together in ministry and values time with each other more then time with the world. And lastly (not that I am only 4 things, but for the sake of my time and yours...) I am the lead singer of a band trying to tell a story. Not a story about us or our music, but a story of children that can't speak for themselves. A story of young boys and girls that will go without food and water. A story of families being torn apart by extreme poverty, famine, drought and war. A story that I would like to see end with hope.
Everyday, I wake up and juggle the many obstacles involved in touring in a band full-time, writing music, reading my Bible, being a husband, staying connected with my family, serving in my church, speaking for the poor, staying healthy, writing articles, producing pod-casts, praying, meeting new people, attending meetings, checking emails, making phone calls, typing proposals, discussing yearly projections... and the list could go on and on and on...
I am coming to realize however that the only thing that truly offers peace in the midst of such chaos is my personal time with Jesus. I can't find it in music, books, television, relationships, concerts, success, money, or recreation. My time with God is the primary strength for fighting a war with the world of greed, obsession, and temptation. I strive to be more like Christ everyday. I want to be known as a husband that gave 110% for his wife. I want to be remembered as a family member that was willing to do anything for the ones he loved. And I want to stand for the ones that can't stand for themselves. Through it all, I am reminded that it is all for The King, and without Him, none of this is worth it.
Sometimes it takes a late night jog to be with God. Other times, it simply involves prioritizing our activities and discovering what truly matters.
What is God teaching you today? Are you struggling to find balance in your daily activities? Do you enjoy what you are doing everyday, or are you simply trying to "get by"?
I look forward to your feedback as we begin to pray for each other...
It's not as though I have any major trials or conflicts that I am currently experiencing, but more of a need to spend some time alone with God. In fact, halfway through my late evening jog in the streets, I turned off one of my favorite bands and took out my headphones in attempt to "hear" God more clearly. You see, for the past 3 years as I have toured the country with my brothers in WILLET,I have often found myself in a never-ending search for "balance" in my life. I am a very "driven" person, and can be easily motivated to strive at reaching goals. Sometimes those goals are musical, spiritual, physical, emotional and even financial. Other times, they are related to a specific cause, or a day-to-day activity. Regardless of the final result, I draw inspiration from seeing a great photo, watching an intriguing film, hearing a well-written song, or reading a fantastic article. I find however, as quickly as I am motivated, I can also lose interest with the snap of a finger as well.
The balance that I am searching for is unknown at this point in my life. I absolutely love what God has called me to do as I travel the country, and now the world, sharing my heart about orphaned children in Africa. The confusion sets in however, when I begin to evaluate what I spend a majority of my time on. You see, I am a follower of Jesus first. (Notice I didn't use the word "christian" as that has a very "loose" meaning now days.) Secondly, I am a husband. A very happy and undeserving husband at that. A husband to a beautiful wife that I had the privilege of meeting, dating for 5 years as my first girlfriend, and marrying 2 and a half years ago. Thirdly, I am a member of a God-loving family that I am proud to be a part of. A family that serves together in ministry and values time with each other more then time with the world. And lastly (not that I am only 4 things, but for the sake of my time and yours...) I am the lead singer of a band trying to tell a story. Not a story about us or our music, but a story of children that can't speak for themselves. A story of young boys and girls that will go without food and water. A story of families being torn apart by extreme poverty, famine, drought and war. A story that I would like to see end with hope.
Everyday, I wake up and juggle the many obstacles involved in touring in a band full-time, writing music, reading my Bible, being a husband, staying connected with my family, serving in my church, speaking for the poor, staying healthy, writing articles, producing pod-casts, praying, meeting new people, attending meetings, checking emails, making phone calls, typing proposals, discussing yearly projections... and the list could go on and on and on...
I am coming to realize however that the only thing that truly offers peace in the midst of such chaos is my personal time with Jesus. I can't find it in music, books, television, relationships, concerts, success, money, or recreation. My time with God is the primary strength for fighting a war with the world of greed, obsession, and temptation. I strive to be more like Christ everyday. I want to be known as a husband that gave 110% for his wife. I want to be remembered as a family member that was willing to do anything for the ones he loved. And I want to stand for the ones that can't stand for themselves. Through it all, I am reminded that it is all for The King, and without Him, none of this is worth it.
Sometimes it takes a late night jog to be with God. Other times, it simply involves prioritizing our activities and discovering what truly matters.
What is God teaching you today? Are you struggling to find balance in your daily activities? Do you enjoy what you are doing everyday, or are you simply trying to "get by"?
I look forward to your feedback as we begin to pray for each other...
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