Charleston_SC_Bridge

Early in our relationship, Courtney began to describe a magical place.  Her eutopia.  If I (now we) didn’t live in Birmingham there would be only one place to live.  No doubt about it. She  loves Charleston, South Carolina. 

So about a month ago we decided to take a trip for her birthday.  Any ideas where we will be going?

Big Rocks

8
Apr

Watch this video Then answer the question:  “What are the big rocks in my life?”

{click here if you cannot see flash video}

If you had rather read the text version you can find it here.

Steven Covey and Pastor Chris have both used this example to talk about time management.

You can write it in the comment box if you want or not. All that matters is that you know what the important thing are in you life and make time for them.


The Most Catalystagic Man in the World from Church of the Highlands on Vimeo.

My church has an annual men’s conference called Catalyst.  I’m going!  This year it is March 25-26.

A little bit about the conference from the website, “Friday night through Saturday will be packed full of incredible opportunities to build great relationships, as well as learn from the Scriptures and experience God through powerful times of worship. We are excited to have special guest speakers Pastor Keith Craft and Dr. Ted Roberts. Don’t miss out on amazing food and tons of fun as the men of Highlands gather for a life-changing weekend you will never forget! Catalyst Men’s Conference!

I’ll see you there http://www.churchofthehighlands.com/catalyst/

This weekend Court and I decided to “get out of Dodge.”  We went to Orange Beach to stay with my roommate from college.

Guy And Courtney Walker on the Beach

This is us on the beach Saturday morning.

Mom packed us a ton of stuff to cook for dinner. Sadly we were too busy eating to take pictures… but it was good food!

Sunday we woke up and went spear fishing… to say we shot a few would be an understatement.

Ok I only shot two… It was cold but fun.

What was your last weekend get away?

Johnny Walker working hardJohnny Walker and chainsaw

Last weekend dad and I cut a few trees that were blocking the road through the woods.

It was refreshing to be outside in 70° weather working with our hands.

(Secret: I have a scar on my leg from a chain saw.)

I love dad. He has always been a great example for me. He is the hardest worker I know.

Grumpy Old Men

Once again, I was the youngest person in the room.  My role was to serve cookies and coffee to the “grumpy old men.” A small group Billy Hornsby, my boss, is leading.

There were a few points that I really hope to never forget.

Billy’s Story

I have heard it so many times but every time I learn something new.

Today he said, “I knew that God would use me.”  He became an apprentice. For ten years he strived to live life honoring God.  He didn’t want to be anyone special. And he didn’t want to be on anyone’s band wagon.

Focus on Others

His hope was to live long enough to influence others.  I think he has more than accomplished that goal. Over 150 people have come to visit him in the last few weeks.  He has influence!

“You have the greatest joy when you live for others.” he told the Grumpy Old Men.  They all nodded in agreement.

Take Baby Steps

The other day he told Charlene, his wife, “We climbed a mountain. All we did was take baby steps our whole life and look at what God has done.”

Little things, done deliberately at the right time, can make a big difference” -John Maxwell

Billy’s baby steps have led him to leading the church planting organization at which I am employed. I love hearing him talk about ARC.  “Leaders who are not super stars in their own eyes.”

How to Measures Wealth

How Billy measures wealth:

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Staff (often the same as above.)
  • Church

When I Die

The conversation often was thinking and talking about when “I” die…   It seems like people only think about that when they are old. Why?

“Here I am about to kick the bucket and I’m living the dream!” -Billy

At the end of the small group everyone gathered around Billy and prayed.

They came as Grumpy Old Men and left GRATEFUL!

guy walkers first bible

This picture was inspired after my friend brett shot his first deer.

Brett and First deerDeer on Fourwheeler

Love hurts

15
Feb

Valentines morning I sliced the tip of my finger off.  I was preparing the most amazing breakfast in bed for my beautiful wife Courtney.  After making the heart shaped pancakes, I was cutting a green apple. I cutting a little more than the apple.  The knife came down at the tip of my fingernail. No more finger tip!  Wow didn’t know the knife was that sharp! It bled a lot. I put a band-aid on it and served my wife breakfast.

Guys hurt hand

Husky PuppyNormally I don’t like dogs but this little puppy was cute.  If I was going to have a dog it would be a Siberian Husky.

Helps you focus

While spending time & traveling with Billy, He would ask about my family.  “How is your dad/mom” he always asked.  The first few times it had been weeks since I spoke with my parents. My general response was, “they are ok .” I would have to guess because I didn’t know for sure.  “Never forget to call.”  He went on to explain how it is easy to get busy, especially when you are young.  But, “If you don’t stay close to them now you will regret it later on.”   As a mentor Billy makes sure I focus; not on work but on family.

Billy Hornsby Mentor

Helps you make your mark

The best mentors don’t tell you all the right answers instead they put you in the right environment.  You have to make your “mark” before you make your “mark.”  Using the example of Lee Iacocca, who made his “mark” with Ford Motor Company launching the Mustang, who then went on to make his “mark” as one of business history’s greatest comebacks as president at Chrysler Corporation. His success, coupled with appearances in television commercials and his best-selling book, made him one of the nation’s most known and admired businessmen.

Billy explained how Iacocca could have never been put in the position of president at Chrysler Corporation if he didn’t first launch the Mustang at Ford.  Mentors put you in position to make your mark.  I saved the picture from when Billy was explaining this to me. (Click above to see full.)

Adds value to others…

@kellencoldiron Just spent the best hour of my day with @billyhornsby. Said that time spent living for yourself is wasted. A great man.

@mattfry Landed in Birmingham. Looking forward to spending time with the “bishop” @billyhornsby So thankful for the impact he’s had on my life.

@markpettus “I don’t want anything from you, I want to add to you.” @billyhornsby

@joelhunter1 Just talked to friend and mentor @billyhornsby there is nobody on the planet I respect more! His faith, his family and his ministry!

@sean_clarke: “Believe in people and your life will be full” from @billyhornsby. Incredible leader! So blessed to know him & learn from him!

@Chris_Hodges: If you serve others, the work is always done. If you serve yourself, the work is never done. Words of wisdom from @billyhornsby

Those are a few traits that have made Billy Hornsby a great mentor.