I’m technically slow! Always have been. Just six years ago someone else checked my email, and I dictated my responses. There is NO modern-day technology that I truly love. I’d much rather be bucked off a young horse, or build a fence in the hot sun or freezing cold than set up a new smartphone or TV service! I love simple! Grass. Cattle. Horses. Wind. Rain. Sunrise. Sunset. I’m a cowboy at heart!
I remember 2003, the first time my good friend, Marty Duren, said he was blogging. I didn’t want to appear stupid, but I had no idea what he was talking about. I had NEVER heard the word. I’m still cynical about much of the content, divisiveness, and rancor that I see on various blogs. Much of it seems unhealthy and unnecessary.
So why did I start this blog? Why now?
- Re-connect I have been so laser focused on my awesome family, farm life, and the church I’ve led for the last 16 years; I have become isolated from much of the body of Christ. I have accepted few speaking engagements in recent years. It’s time for me to reconnect.
- Re-gear After 30 years of great marriage, and raising two amazing daughters, Lisa and I are now empty nesters and adjusting well; both of our daughters were married last year. It’s a great time to proactively fill the gap, and broaden our influence.
- Reflect I am nearing the age of 50, and I am thinking much deeper about life, reflecting and evaluating more, and planning the next phase. Many people struggle during the transitions of life. I can add value and confidence to their journey as I share from my own.
- Re-invest I have led Midway Church through a major cultural shift from a single race of 200 attendees to a multi-racial church of over 2000 attendees and 3400 members. Our average age has been lowered from 58 to age 34. In the process, I have learned a few things about transformational change that can add great value to other leaders in the church and corporate world.
- Re-vision I believe I still have several good years of pastoral leadership left, and God continues to give me great vision and passion to lead Midway Church; however, my vision also includes a broader group. I want to do a better job of chronicling the next phase of life and intentionally investing in others.
I am more aware than ever that my life is a journey that is closer to its end than beginning. I’ve been greatly blessed and successful, but I want to finish well. I want to approach life after 50 with intentional purpose. Intentionally leading “ME” into the future is my biggest challenge! Blogging is a tool to help me do all of these things. It’s a stretch, but I plan to enjoy the ride!
Thank you for joining me on my journey!
Todd Wright
I wish you well on your journey, I’m with you on what ever journey you are headed. Because I know it will help me to find my own.
Kudos Todd! What a great first blog. Looking forward to all that God does through your writing!
I love it. But if you think it is a change for you at 48 Just think of the change for me at 74. Let us go on this ride. I will be right with you.
Love you my Brother.
gus
I am glad you decided to do this Todd! You will be an encouragement and inspiration to many.
Well I assume you have an iPod, iPad,iPhone if your going to get tech savvy those are your three ingredients kinda like a trinity I know you can relate lol
Welcome to the blogosphere! It’s always better late than never.
Thank you Sheri, Belinda, and Thomas very much for your comments and encouraging words in this new venture, and most importantly, thank you for joining me.
Gus, You amaze me, and thank you for riding along!
Robert, yes I now have all of them. Makes for a better world than PC!
Marty, you have been much of the inspiration and influence for this. Now maybe you will move into the farm world a little! Cows and horses on the way?
That is http://www.MartyDuren.com Thank you for the feedback!
Todd, I enjoy your radio spots that you have on local radio. I’ve admired your leadership in the church and in the community. I’m looking forward to you sharing your heart and your insight. You have already inspired me many times, now you’ll reach even more!!
Press on my brother!
Dwayne Hicks
Todd … what a great way to catch up with you. Since leaving Midway, I have truly missed everyone! This will be awesome to gather ya’ll back into my sphere
Todd,
We are so excited about your blog. You are an inspiration to us and so many and looking forward being with you on this journey.
Love you,
Carolyn and Dennis Smith
Carolyn, Stay Tuned!
Wonderful words, Todd! I look forward to another way to glean your wisdom! Thanks for everything!
Thank you David!