Newsletter

January 25, 2012

Leadership is the art of getting people to do what you want done because they want to do it. Dwight D Eisenhower

Dear Friends,

A true blessing of RICH’S RIDE was the days I spent riding with my friend Glenn. We enjoyed three days of great scenery, chocolate milkshakes, and wonderful discussions. With just a bit more time we just might have solved ALL the world’s problems!

One thing I love about Glenn is that he always has a question. It’s always a big question, and he’s like a dog with a bone—he’ll ask it and fuss with it a while and then go on to something else, but you know you’re eventually going to circle back to THE QUESTION.

During the ride, Glenn’s question went something like this: How can people from different backgrounds and perspectives figure out how to talk to each other?

Glenn’s a teacher, both by trade and by vocation. He formulates his questions carefully. They’re designed to stick with you, and this one’s rattled around in my brain since October. It’s especially meaningful as we ramp up for a year’s worth of political rhetoric. I think I finally have my answer:

COMMON GROUND

It’s easy and safe to retreat to ideological extremes. Any good speaker can fill a room with like-minded folks, shout a few simplistic, single-issue talking points, dismiss anyone who disagrees, and fire up a sympathetic crowd. Works equally well for preachers and politicians—in fact, it’s often difficult to distinguish between them.

Common ground is harder and riskier. It means getting beyond what divides to identify what unites. The more I’m secure in my core beliefs, the more I can let go of the need for everyone else to agree with me.

There’s certainly a time and place for gathering with those who share and reinforce my core beliefs. I treasure those who help me grow and deepen my faith.

But the ultimate purpose isn’t to build walls that isolate and divide. The whole point of life is relationship. That means I need to tear down the walls. I need to listen and try to understand the other guy’s perspective.

I need to seek common ground.

A New Year?

I’m astonished at the number of New Year’s stories that are anything but exciting and fresh starts. Seems that January’s a time when lots of folks struggle with depression and loss. If you’re searching for a way to help someone in that situation, Relentless Grace might be just the right discussion starter.

I also invite you to consider those in a nearby detention center, shelter, or nursing home. This can be a tough time, and the simple donation of a few books might touch someone in a way you’ll never understand. Books pass through many hands, especially those donated to jails and shelters. I’m confident God will get your gift to someone who’s ready to listen to Him.

I hope you’ll help me in reaching out to those who need to know about God’s Relentless Grace.

If you’re one of the lucky folks who found a Kindle under the tree, how about adding Relentless Grace to your reading list–at a special reduced price?

Click here for a great digital deal on an inspirational story of hope, redemption and new beginnings.

Help Us Tell The Story

Do you know of a group that might appreciate the inspirational message of Rich’s Ride?

The 1500 miles is finished, but we can still use this adventure to inspire and encourage. This article offers some thoughts and ideas.

Please think about church, school, and civic groups that might benefit from hearing this amazing story. Click this button to get more information.

Are you on Facebook? Will you be my friend? Please? Anyway, I hope you’ll connect with me in these places:

• Join the RICH’S RIDE page on Facebook (and suggest it to your friends!)
• Join the Relentless Grace page on Facebook (and suggest it to your friends!)
• Be my friend on Facebook. I need all the help I can get.
• Subscribe to Bouncing Back to receive blog updates.

Bouncing Back

We’re still exploring “living life on purpose” over at Bouncing Back. I hope you’ll check out anything that catches your attention and take some time to look around what’s been happening at the blog.

Want receive free email updates for Bouncing Back?

Calendar and News

I continue to seek speaking opportunities. I’d appreciate the opportunity to visit your community and speak to your group. Please visit this page for more information about my speaking experiences and possible topics.

If you know someone who is looking for an inspirational speaker, please contact me or forward this information to an appropriate contact.If you are engaged in raising funds for a group or individual, send me an email and let’s discuss a speaking engagement/book signing to support your efforts.