I am tremendously fortunate to have an amazing wife, Melissa, who loves me more than I can possible fathom. Our little family got a bit bigger when our only son married, giving us a wonderful daughter-in-law. And together, they’ve given us the unbelievable treasure of a grandson. I am overwhelmed by all of this, in the best way possible.
As the question marks in my perspective and thinking have become more and more prevalent over the last few years, I think it’s best to keep the rest of this as simple and straight forward as I can. I will attempt to summarize this by telling you what I value above all else: relationships, authenticity, and love. And let me be clear, it takes time for me to explain what I mean when I use those words, even to myself at times!
For instance, relationships are not counted by how many “friends” I have on social media. I sincerely mean something very special when I use the words “friendship” or “relationship”. I do not measure love by what people do or don’t do, or by how many times “I love you” is said. And authenticity, my goodness, that one may be the most convoluted of all.
For those interested, I have an MBA from Campbell University, a MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and a Phd in Clinical Christian Counseling from somewhere. I’ve worked mainly as an accountant and a counselor over the years. I did serve as a Youth Pastor for a short period of time. I also wrote a book. It’s something about panic attacks, fear, and anxiety. I’m told by some, for the right readers, it has been helpful.
-Neil
