I spend a lot of time at my desk which is why I positioned mementos with meaning in clear view.
Even though Jocelyn sees them as dust collectors they serve a greater purpose for me.
So I thought I’d give you a peak into the world of my backroom, home office.
The desk I work at belonged to our son, Jean Marc’s wife’s grandfather. Angie gave it to us and I’ve put it to good use. It’s many drawers serve to keep most workplace objects out of sight. The items on top of the desk are my inspiration. 
The three-year old boy holding the Chihuahua in front of his grandfather’s car never could have imagined the places he would go. Thailand, South Korea, Morocco, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kenya, Fort Good Hope, Siberia, and Ukraine. He never dreamed that he would good to sleep with the sound of sirens in a country torn apart by a terrorist invader and be privileged to meet tenacious people who were determined to keep their freedom.
The picture reminds me that God created me for a purpose and as I follow His call, He leads me into profound and purposeful experiences.
Heroes
Our sons, Cory and Jean Marc are my heroes.
They achieved remarkable success in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and football. Both were all stars and standout scholarship athletes and academics. I got to coach some of their teams but my fondest memories are from travelling across Canada to watch them compete in national championship games.
Cory and JM remind me that talent alone is not enough. Champions must hone their talent. And championship wins are rare. Treasure a win.
I’m proud of the men and husbands, fathers and citizens that they have become.
Adversity
The two images of Kate Murray and Mandi Schwartz are representative of all the young people I’ve come in contact with, who faced cancer and other life threatening afflictions.
Mandi was a friend of a friend who played hockey for Yale while battling cancer. Her brother Jaden is a Stanley Cup Champion. Kate was the 12-year old brave heart who came into our lives when she was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. Kate and Mandi and others like Jordan and Kristen and Lorie and Cassie. Their faith, courage, tenacity, and love are an inspiration. Some have passed but their memory lives everyday in my heart. 
Writing
My friend Tim Fowler is the man behind Birch Canoe. Tim is a former VP with Aramark, a Board member at North Pointe, a Red Seal Chef, a successful writer, and a friend. He would say his most important roles are husband, father, and grandfather.
Tim and I started a group in support of aspiring writers. We learned together. His career in published works caught fire faster than anyone else in the group. Tim has a way with words and I think that’s because of his way with people. He is best at asking questions that help people unpack the deep, interesting parts of their lives. He’s written for Westjet magazine and a plethora of technical and outdoor magazines. His research on outdoor equipment is as enthralling as his recipes are tasty.
I keep his business card handy to inspire me to do better.
Partner
You may wonder where is the item that reminds me of Jocelyn?
Oh, she is not forgotten. All of these items combined remind me of her. Mother of our sons. Partner in caring for others. The keeper of the dust cloth. And adventurer through 46 years of life. With both of us in our 7th decades this year, it’s no surprise that when given a choice of going anywhere in the world to celebrate her birthday she chose, Ukraine.
She knows my heart and heard me speak so highly of my experiences and new friends in Ukraine that she would go to a country the Canadian government warns people away from. She knows the risks. It’s a calling.
And what safer place to be than in the centre of God’s will.
We’re learning Ukrainian as one more way to say to war weary people, we see you and we love you.
You can say Happy Birthday to Jocelyn and support her in our trip to Ukraine. Designate your giving with Loads of Love to B&J Ukraine Ministry You will receive a charitable receipt for your financial support. Thank you.
What inspires you?
Please join the conversation and post a comment below. Thank you.
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