Well I have pretty much neglected my blogs for the past 6 months, focusing heavily on other avenues of social media. I want to take a few minutes to update some things, as well as share some opinions.
_______________________________________________________________
Update on job search
Sadly 2012 has continued my struggle (like so many others) for employment. I have put together a few freelance opportunities, which I am extremely thankful for, but the search for full-time employment continues.
Since 2005 I have said "I must be blacklisted somewhere" because finding employment in the areas that I am most passionate about...opportunities have been non-existent. Not sure who I pissed off where, but it seems like there is a black mark against me somewhere and I'm not sure how to over come that.
I'm hard working, passionate about what I do and will give everything I have for a company. Seems like being a family man has worked against me, but I am sorry my faith and family come before anything else!
If your company is looking for someone that is passionate (there's that word again), is experienced in media, marketing, sales, social media and promotion...then I am your guy. Contact me directly at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com
Ohana Consulting
As a follow-up, in May 2011 following leaving the Milwaukee Wave, I ventured out on my own with Ohana Consulting. The focus of Ohana started as helping small businesses reach out via social media to build their brand awareness and act as an addition to "traditional" marketing.
Social media marketing has become the hottest area of the marketing industry, and a tough nut to crack for a small business starting out. Comapnies and agencies of all shapes and sizes are pushing to be the "end all be all" for social media marketing. This was never my intention.
Much like when I was working in sales, it is more about the service provided, making sure that the businesses and groups I work with are getting exactly what they contracted me for. First and foremost...THE TRUTH.
This has not been enough as everyone now wants all the bells and whistles, elements of social media that sound sexy but in all honestly only work for a small segment of the business world. Integrity is more important to me that sales quotas, inflated numbers and broken promises.
Through it all I will continue to plug away, one partner at a time, to make my dream of what Ohana Consulting can be come true.
Family
Despite the rough going we have had since April 2011, I still consider myself a blessed man. In February we welcomed Jonah into the world, making our family lucky number 7. I have 5 beautiful healthy kids that are all unique and talented in their own ways.
I have an amazing wife of 16 years that supports me through this transitional time for me...and is the glue that holds our family together.
God has blessed me with a couple of true friends that I can count on 100% when I need them...but I would also give anything for them!
This past 18 months have been the hardest we have ever faced as a family, but I know that the Lord will continue to provide for us...and will rain His favor down on us in His timing, not when I seek it or ask for it.
The Future
What does the future hold for me? I have no idea. I know that there is a new adventure waiting for me...just waiting on when it will present itself.
I will continue to be the person I have been...outgoing, dedicated, faithful...that will never change. Where this takes me I will have to wait and see.
All I know is...I will be an asset to whomever will take me, I will leave my mark wherever I go...and as the great WWE HOFer had one one of his shirts "You can't kill what you did not create!"
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Sunday, January 1, 2012
2012...a year of goals
I have never been a believer in New Years Resolutions...seems like a short term fix for problems we have. I am all about setting goals to accomplish to make our lives better.
In the past I have set a few goals that I have wanted to accomplish, but always seems to get sidetracked by other. 2012 will be a different story for me. I have had lots of time during my job "hiatus" to think about the things I want to do and accomplish.
Not only am I going to set goals, but I am going to make them public via this blog and keep an ongoing update. Some of these may seem trivial to those of you reading this, but each of these is important to me for one reason or another.
1. Exercise everyday of 2012...whether walking, running, gym, swimming.
2. Lose (and keep off) at least 30 pounds
3. Read the entire Bible ( the One Year Bible is an amazing resource)
4. Read at least one new book each month
5. Learn one new skill each quarter of the year
6. Do something good for someone else at least once a day (365 days of giving)
7. Spend more time volunteering
8. Spend more one-on-one time with each of my children
9. Write a new blog at least once per week.
10. Spend more quiet time in reflection and prayer.
Why don't you join me on this journey. Make a list of ten things you want to do this year....share them and let's keep each other accountable.
In the past I have set a few goals that I have wanted to accomplish, but always seems to get sidetracked by other. 2012 will be a different story for me. I have had lots of time during my job "hiatus" to think about the things I want to do and accomplish.
Not only am I going to set goals, but I am going to make them public via this blog and keep an ongoing update. Some of these may seem trivial to those of you reading this, but each of these is important to me for one reason or another.
1. Exercise everyday of 2012...whether walking, running, gym, swimming.
2. Lose (and keep off) at least 30 pounds
3. Read the entire Bible ( the One Year Bible is an amazing resource)
4. Read at least one new book each month
5. Learn one new skill each quarter of the year
6. Do something good for someone else at least once a day (365 days of giving)
7. Spend more time volunteering
8. Spend more one-on-one time with each of my children
9. Write a new blog at least once per week.
10. Spend more quiet time in reflection and prayer.
Why don't you join me on this journey. Make a list of ten things you want to do this year....share them and let's keep each other accountable.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Jon Kurozawa- 2011 the year that was.
Ok so maybe this is the lazy or cheap way out, but because of certain situations...my darling wife and I opted not to send out Christmas cards, pictures or the obligatory Christmas letter. Inspired by my friend Cindy Huber, this year I will be sharing with all of you the "Year That Was" for the Kurozawa's
Going to try to much not to focus on the "Jimmy did this, Jane went here, etc" but with four children it's hard not to do.
The underlying theme of Kurozawa 2011 was overcoming challenges and staying strong in our faith. (Seems to be a theme every year)
2011 was a year where we learned as a family how to do things more modestly, much like a great percentage of the country. While we had to make some sacrifices, we still enjoyed a number of things this year.
Thanks to some great programs, Mia and Noah were able to enjoy some wonderful summer camps through Elmbrook Church and TimberLee Christian Center. Mia actually finally got the opportunity to be a volunteer at Camp Vertical this coming year.
As you all know, my job with the Milwaukee Wave was eliminated back in April...which led to a summer and fall of searching, sacrificing...but most importantly trusting heavily in God. This ended up being (and continuing to be) one of the greatest challenge of my life, but the support of Holly and our church has been amazing. This 8 month "hiatus" has given me a lot of time to reflect and re-focus on what I want to do moving forward (this is still an on-going process as I am still trying to figure out what path I am meant to take)
Despite the lack of employment, the year was filled with a number of high points.
The biggest is the expectation of Kurozawa #5 (in early February). There have been a number of people that were surprised, shocked and question the decision to have another child. To answer any of that I simply say "If God wants it to happen, it will happen. WE trust in what He wants for us"
Another was the Wave winning a championship in April (while I was still with the team). It was bitter sweet, but every time I look at the Championship Ring I have, I remember the good times with the team, the fun Noah had getting to know the players while working on the bench for the home games and the relationships I built with a number of the dedicated Wave fans.
Sports were a heavy focal point for our family, as Mia continued on with the West Suburban Y Sharks Swim Team and Noah with a variety of different soccer teams, but I will get back to that later. It is a true blessing to have kids that are excelling in sports they love.
Overall 2011 was a year that I will remember for certain things, but would rather forget for others. In the end, everything our family has gone through has only made us stronger and closer to God. Most importantly, it will make 2012 seem even sweeter when we accomplish great things in the new year!
Going to try to much not to focus on the "Jimmy did this, Jane went here, etc" but with four children it's hard not to do.
The underlying theme of Kurozawa 2011 was overcoming challenges and staying strong in our faith. (Seems to be a theme every year)
2011 was a year where we learned as a family how to do things more modestly, much like a great percentage of the country. While we had to make some sacrifices, we still enjoyed a number of things this year.
Thanks to some great programs, Mia and Noah were able to enjoy some wonderful summer camps through Elmbrook Church and TimberLee Christian Center. Mia actually finally got the opportunity to be a volunteer at Camp Vertical this coming year.
As you all know, my job with the Milwaukee Wave was eliminated back in April...which led to a summer and fall of searching, sacrificing...but most importantly trusting heavily in God. This ended up being (and continuing to be) one of the greatest challenge of my life, but the support of Holly and our church has been amazing. This 8 month "hiatus" has given me a lot of time to reflect and re-focus on what I want to do moving forward (this is still an on-going process as I am still trying to figure out what path I am meant to take)
Despite the lack of employment, the year was filled with a number of high points.
The biggest is the expectation of Kurozawa #5 (in early February). There have been a number of people that were surprised, shocked and question the decision to have another child. To answer any of that I simply say "If God wants it to happen, it will happen. WE trust in what He wants for us"
Another was the Wave winning a championship in April (while I was still with the team). It was bitter sweet, but every time I look at the Championship Ring I have, I remember the good times with the team, the fun Noah had getting to know the players while working on the bench for the home games and the relationships I built with a number of the dedicated Wave fans.
Sports were a heavy focal point for our family, as Mia continued on with the West Suburban Y Sharks Swim Team and Noah with a variety of different soccer teams, but I will get back to that later. It is a true blessing to have kids that are excelling in sports they love.
Overall 2011 was a year that I will remember for certain things, but would rather forget for others. In the end, everything our family has gone through has only made us stronger and closer to God. Most importantly, it will make 2012 seem even sweeter when we accomplish great things in the new year!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
The New and Improved JonKurozawa.com
Greetings friends,
After many months of debating, I have now made JonKurozawa.com live.
For the time being it will still be based through BlogSpot.com, but soon it will be a stand alone site.
The new site will feature my blog for The Edge of Sports, links to Twitter and Facebook and a link for the Edge of Sports broadcasts on BlogTalkRadio. I will also be posting pictures, videos and much more.
This will be the first stage in the online transformation of Jon Kurozawa
Thanks for checking this out...get ready to join me for the ride.
After many months of debating, I have now made JonKurozawa.com live.
For the time being it will still be based through BlogSpot.com, but soon it will be a stand alone site.
The new site will feature my blog for The Edge of Sports, links to Twitter and Facebook and a link for the Edge of Sports broadcasts on BlogTalkRadio. I will also be posting pictures, videos and much more.
This will be the first stage in the online transformation of Jon Kurozawa
Thanks for checking this out...get ready to join me for the ride.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
4th Annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive
Greetings friends and family...the Christmas season is here!
It's time to announce the 4th annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive to benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
This year the donation drive is coordinated through @AMillion4Kids, meaning this year we are also able to accept cash donations.Mia (6th grade) and Noah (4th grade) have enjoyed supporting the Milwaukee Rescue Mission the past few years, being able to bring smiles to children and families who are going through difficult times, but none of it has been possible with out the support and generosity of our friends and family.This year Mia and Noah welcome their younger sister Isabela (Kindergarten) into the fold.Below is a list of the Christmas Wish items that the Milwaukee Rescue Mission is asking for this year:
ChristmasNeeds
• New toys for children,
from babies to teens
• Watches and jewelry
• Perfumes
• Lotions
• Soaps and Luffas
• Women’s robes
and slippers
• Gift cards
• Wrapping paper—
we will need to wrap
hundreds of gifts!HOLIDAYWISH LIST
Clothing
• Socks and insulated gloves
(men, women and children)
• Hats and scarves for men,
women and children
• Underwear (all sizes,
especially children’s
sizes 2-6, men’s &
women’s large sizes)
• Men’s belts
KitchenNeeds
• Juice
• Fruit
• Snack items
Personal&Baby Care
• Diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6)
• Pull-ups
• Baby wipes
• Spill-proof sippy cups, baby bottles
• Pain relievers, cough/cold/flu medications with
no alcohol content (infant, child and adult strengths)
• Hand lotion
• Deodorant
• VaselineAny help that you can provide between now and December 19th would be greatly appreciated. The kids are hoping for the largest donation to date for this effort.Please pick something on the list…or if you are interested in making a monetary donation, please make checks out to “A Million 4 Kids” and put MRM in the Memo line.For more information, please feel free to contact me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com
The kids will be coordinating donation pickups between December 4-19, with final drop off on Monday December 20th at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.Thank you and God Bless this Christmas season!
It's time to announce the 4th annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive to benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
This year the donation drive is coordinated through @AMillion4Kids, meaning this year we are also able to accept cash donations.Mia (6th grade) and Noah (4th grade) have enjoyed supporting the Milwaukee Rescue Mission the past few years, being able to bring smiles to children and families who are going through difficult times, but none of it has been possible with out the support and generosity of our friends and family.This year Mia and Noah welcome their younger sister Isabela (Kindergarten) into the fold.Below is a list of the Christmas Wish items that the Milwaukee Rescue Mission is asking for this year:
ChristmasNeeds
• New toys for children,
from babies to teens
• Watches and jewelry
• Perfumes
• Lotions
• Soaps and Luffas
• Women’s robes
and slippers
• Gift cards
• Wrapping paper—
we will need to wrap
hundreds of gifts!HOLIDAYWISH LIST
Clothing
• Socks and insulated gloves
(men, women and children)
• Hats and scarves for men,
women and children
• Underwear (all sizes,
especially children’s
sizes 2-6, men’s &
women’s large sizes)
• Men’s belts
KitchenNeeds
• Juice
• Fruit
• Snack items
Personal&Baby Care
• Diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6)
• Pull-ups
• Baby wipes
• Spill-proof sippy cups, baby bottles
• Pain relievers, cough/cold/flu medications with
no alcohol content (infant, child and adult strengths)
• Hand lotion
• Deodorant
• VaselineAny help that you can provide between now and December 19th would be greatly appreciated. The kids are hoping for the largest donation to date for this effort.Please pick something on the list…or if you are interested in making a monetary donation, please make checks out to “A Million 4 Kids” and put MRM in the Memo line.For more information, please feel free to contact me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com
The kids will be coordinating donation pickups between December 4-19, with final drop off on Monday December 20th at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.Thank you and God Bless this Christmas season!
via Ping.fm
4th Annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive
Greetings friends and family...the Christmas season is here!
It's time to announce the 4th annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive to benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
This year the donation drive is coordinated through @AMillion4Kids, meaning this year we are also able to accept cash donations.
Mia (6th grade) and Noah (4th grade) have enjoyed supporting the Milwaukee Rescue Mission the past few years, being able to bring smiles to children and families who are going through difficult times, but none of it has been possible with out the support and generosity of our friends and family.
This year Mia and Noah welcome their younger sister Isabela (Kindergarten) into the fold.
Below is a list of the Christmas Wish items that the Milwaukee Rescue Mission is asking for this year:
ChristmasNeeds
• New toys for children,
from babies to teens
• Watches and jewelry
• Perfumes
• Lotions
• Soaps and Luffas
• Women’s robes
and slippers
• Gift cards
• Wrapping paper—
we will need to wrap
hundreds of gifts!
HOLIDAYWISH LIST
Clothing
• Socks and insulated gloves
(men, women and children)
• Hats and scarves for men,
women and children
• Underwear (all sizes,
especially children’s
sizes 2-6, men’s &
women’s large sizes)
• Men’s belts
KitchenNeeds
• Juice
• Fruit
• Snack items
Personal&Baby Care
• Diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6)
• Pull-ups
• Baby wipes
• Spill-proof sippy cups, baby bottles
• Pain relievers, cough/cold/flu medications with
no alcohol content (infant, child and adult strengths)
• Hand lotion
• Deodorant
• Vaseline
Any help that you can provide between now and December 19th would be greatly appreciated. The kids are hoping for the largest donation to date for this effort.
Please pick something on the list…or if you are interested in making a monetary donation, please make checks out to “A Million 4 Kids” and put MRM in the Memo line.
For more information, please feel free to contact me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com
The kids will be coordinating donation pickups between December 4-19, with final drop off on Monday December 20th at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
Thank you and God Bless this Christmas season!
It's time to announce the 4th annual Kurozawa Kids Christmas Wish Drive to benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
This year the donation drive is coordinated through @AMillion4Kids, meaning this year we are also able to accept cash donations.
Mia (6th grade) and Noah (4th grade) have enjoyed supporting the Milwaukee Rescue Mission the past few years, being able to bring smiles to children and families who are going through difficult times, but none of it has been possible with out the support and generosity of our friends and family.
This year Mia and Noah welcome their younger sister Isabela (Kindergarten) into the fold.
Below is a list of the Christmas Wish items that the Milwaukee Rescue Mission is asking for this year:
ChristmasNeeds
• New toys for children,
from babies to teens
• Watches and jewelry
• Perfumes
• Lotions
• Soaps and Luffas
• Women’s robes
and slippers
• Gift cards
• Wrapping paper—
we will need to wrap
hundreds of gifts!
HOLIDAYWISH LIST
Clothing
• Socks and insulated gloves
(men, women and children)
• Hats and scarves for men,
women and children
• Underwear (all sizes,
especially children’s
sizes 2-6, men’s &
women’s large sizes)
• Men’s belts
KitchenNeeds
• Juice
• Fruit
• Snack items
Personal&Baby Care
• Diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6)
• Pull-ups
• Baby wipes
• Spill-proof sippy cups, baby bottles
• Pain relievers, cough/cold/flu medications with
no alcohol content (infant, child and adult strengths)
• Hand lotion
• Deodorant
• Vaseline
Any help that you can provide between now and December 19th would be greatly appreciated. The kids are hoping for the largest donation to date for this effort.
Please pick something on the list…or if you are interested in making a monetary donation, please make checks out to “A Million 4 Kids” and put MRM in the Memo line.
For more information, please feel free to contact me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com
The kids will be coordinating donation pickups between December 4-19, with final drop off on Monday December 20th at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
Thank you and God Bless this Christmas season!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Give...care...help (an update on the Journey of Life)
A few days ago I was inspired to start writing the “Journey of Life” blog…but I was hit with another inspiration that is changing my vision for this blog, at least for the next 8 weeks.These final two months of 2010 will be filled with thoughts of Thanksgiving and Christmas, two holidays that many of us have begun to take for granted. This is a time of the year that my wife and I have worked over the past few years to inspire our children to care for others and give more than they receive.With that in mind, I cannot write a blog that is focusing in on my life.In the spirit of the “Give This New Year Away” blogs from earlier this year, I will be dedicating the next 8 weeks to focusing on others in need. There will be suggestions of ways to give back, stories of triumph during the holidays, listings of volunteer opportunities and special events to participate in. Plus I will feature people and families that may need our help in one way or another.This will be something unlike anything I have done before…but I look forward to sharing with you and hopefully inspiring you, while I inspire my children.Won’t you please join me and my family, as we embark on this holiday adventure. Share your ideas, stories and events with all of us.In the words of Matthew West…let’s Give This Christmas (and holiday season) Away!
via Ping.fm
Give...care...help (an update on the Journey of Life)
A few days ago I was inspired to start writing the “Journey of Life†blog…but I was hit with another inspiration that is changing my vision for this blog, at least for the next 8 weeks.
These final two months of 2010 will be filled with thoughts of Thanksgiving and Christmas, two holidays that many of us have begun to take for granted. This is a time of the year that my wife and I have worked over the past few years to inspire our children to care for others and give more than they receive.
With that in mind, I cannot write a blog that is focusing in on my life.
In the spirit of the “Give This New Year Away†blogs from earlier this year, I will be dedicating the next 8 weeks to focusing on others in need.
There will be suggestions of ways to give back, stories of triumph during the holidays, listings of volunteer opportunities and special events to participate in. Plus I will feature people and families that may need our help in one way or another.
This will be something unlike anything I have done before…but I look forward to sharing with you and hopefully inspiring you, while I inspire my children.
Won’t you please join me and my family, as we embark on this holiday adventure. Share your ideas, stories and events with all of us.
In the words of Matthew West…let’s Give This Christmas (and holiday season) Away!
These final two months of 2010 will be filled with thoughts of Thanksgiving and Christmas, two holidays that many of us have begun to take for granted. This is a time of the year that my wife and I have worked over the past few years to inspire our children to care for others and give more than they receive.
With that in mind, I cannot write a blog that is focusing in on my life.
In the spirit of the “Give This New Year Away†blogs from earlier this year, I will be dedicating the next 8 weeks to focusing on others in need.
There will be suggestions of ways to give back, stories of triumph during the holidays, listings of volunteer opportunities and special events to participate in. Plus I will feature people and families that may need our help in one way or another.
This will be something unlike anything I have done before…but I look forward to sharing with you and hopefully inspiring you, while I inspire my children.
Won’t you please join me and my family, as we embark on this holiday adventure. Share your ideas, stories and events with all of us.
In the words of Matthew West…let’s Give This Christmas (and holiday season) Away!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Season of change...the Journey of Life.
Inspiration for writing comes from many different places...personal experiences, reading something, seeing something on TV.
My first blog post in a few months is inspired by a few things. This morning I received an email about the 20th anniversary of a website that I frequent. Recently I have been reflective on life, experiences, successes, failures. Reconnecting with an old friend from two decades ago, someone that was very influential during a difficult time in my life. All of these things have inspired me.
This year I turned 40, sort of a turning point in my life. I have been doing a lot of reflecting, thinking about the past...the good, the bad, the mistakes I have made, the great decisions. Looking back...twenty years ago, the midway mark of my life to this point...was the ending of one part and the beginning of another.
Twenty years ago, I was at the lowest point of my life, not sure what I was going to do or where I was going to go. Thanks to a high school friend coming to my aid and the support of two dear friends, I was able to refocus and begin to to get my life back on track. A new chapter began.
Leading up to that "new chapter" were days, weeks and months of heartbreak, uncertainty and regrets. I will openly admit to the entire world...there have been things I have done in my life I am not very proud of. I have lied, hurt people, betrayed people I have called my friends. I wish I could apologize to everyone that I have wronged.
If not for two people, I would not have made it back to where I could "re-start" my life. My best friend and blood brother Rob was there for me through the good and bad, went down the highway of life and hit every bump in the road with me. If not for an argument over something that best friends should not argue over, Rob and I would be as close as we were in our youth. I regret the road I took Rob down in our reckless youth...the troubles I led him through.
The other person is someone I will never forget, can never thank enough for all that she did for me. Kim and I met under less than normal circumstances, teenagers from completely different backgrounds with nothing in common. A chance early morning meeting led to a unique friendship...one that opened my eyes, mind and heart to a whole new world. Kim was there at the darkest night of my life, pulling me in from the edge. She was the voice that brought me home from halfway across the country at a time when I was ready to leave it all, run from what I needed to face. For 20 years, a true angel in my life was lost because of my own ignorance and stupidity, but thankfully we have re-connected. But lost is the friendship that was so special to me.
Why do I share this with all of you know? I have been criticized over the past year for the candidness I display and how open I am with things that go on in my life. Though I have made many mistakes in my life, regret some of the things I have done...I am not ashamed to admit who I am, the struggles I am going through.
I am know for being an active member of the Twitter community, as the loud and sometimes obnoxious MPTV Auction guy, the voice of numerous sports and radio broadcasts, among other things. But how many people know the "Real" Jon Kurozawa?
Outside of my beautiful wife of 14 years (whom I met at the beginning of the "new chapter" I mentioned earlier...only a few know some of the revealing stories of my life.
It's time for the world to get to know who I really am...where I came from, who I am, what I am all about. You see memoirs written by famous people later in life...I will share the past, present and future with each of you...one story at a time.
The next chapter in the life story of Jon continues and I would like all of you to join me...for all the ups and downs, smiles and tears, joy and pain. In the process, share with me your stories of triumph and tragedy...let us lift each other up and encourage as we all go on this journey of life.
My first blog post in a few months is inspired by a few things. This morning I received an email about the 20th anniversary of a website that I frequent. Recently I have been reflective on life, experiences, successes, failures. Reconnecting with an old friend from two decades ago, someone that was very influential during a difficult time in my life. All of these things have inspired me.
This year I turned 40, sort of a turning point in my life. I have been doing a lot of reflecting, thinking about the past...the good, the bad, the mistakes I have made, the great decisions. Looking back...twenty years ago, the midway mark of my life to this point...was the ending of one part and the beginning of another.
Twenty years ago, I was at the lowest point of my life, not sure what I was going to do or where I was going to go. Thanks to a high school friend coming to my aid and the support of two dear friends, I was able to refocus and begin to to get my life back on track. A new chapter began.
Leading up to that "new chapter" were days, weeks and months of heartbreak, uncertainty and regrets. I will openly admit to the entire world...there have been things I have done in my life I am not very proud of. I have lied, hurt people, betrayed people I have called my friends. I wish I could apologize to everyone that I have wronged.
If not for two people, I would not have made it back to where I could "re-start" my life. My best friend and blood brother Rob was there for me through the good and bad, went down the highway of life and hit every bump in the road with me. If not for an argument over something that best friends should not argue over, Rob and I would be as close as we were in our youth. I regret the road I took Rob down in our reckless youth...the troubles I led him through.
The other person is someone I will never forget, can never thank enough for all that she did for me. Kim and I met under less than normal circumstances, teenagers from completely different backgrounds with nothing in common. A chance early morning meeting led to a unique friendship...one that opened my eyes, mind and heart to a whole new world. Kim was there at the darkest night of my life, pulling me in from the edge. She was the voice that brought me home from halfway across the country at a time when I was ready to leave it all, run from what I needed to face. For 20 years, a true angel in my life was lost because of my own ignorance and stupidity, but thankfully we have re-connected. But lost is the friendship that was so special to me.
Why do I share this with all of you know? I have been criticized over the past year for the candidness I display and how open I am with things that go on in my life. Though I have made many mistakes in my life, regret some of the things I have done...I am not ashamed to admit who I am, the struggles I am going through.
I am know for being an active member of the Twitter community, as the loud and sometimes obnoxious MPTV Auction guy, the voice of numerous sports and radio broadcasts, among other things. But how many people know the "Real" Jon Kurozawa?
Outside of my beautiful wife of 14 years (whom I met at the beginning of the "new chapter" I mentioned earlier...only a few know some of the revealing stories of my life.
It's time for the world to get to know who I really am...where I came from, who I am, what I am all about. You see memoirs written by famous people later in life...I will share the past, present and future with each of you...one story at a time.
The next chapter in the life story of Jon continues and I would like all of you to join me...for all the ups and downs, smiles and tears, joy and pain. In the process, share with me your stories of triumph and tragedy...let us lift each other up and encourage as we all go on this journey of life.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Pay It Forward..the continuation
Thank you to everyone that has read this blog over the past week plus.
This has been an amazing ride, but it is just beginning.
I wrote about Paying It Forward, as a Thank You to all those that stepped forward in faith and helped my family. Over the past week I have read the stores of @teecycletim and @robertjames1 (both from Twitter) the struggles they are facing and the amazing stories of the Milwaukee community stepping up to aid them.
Based on what has happened (and the fact my wife decided to throw in the movie "Pay It Forward")I want to see this through and really take it to the next level.
Much like my topics of "Give This New Year Away" have been meant to encourage..I want my vision for the "Pay It Forward Project" to do the same.
Will you please consider joining me on this journey, one that will hopefully begin a positive revolution in our community!
This has been an amazing ride, but it is just beginning.
I wrote about Paying It Forward, as a Thank You to all those that stepped forward in faith and helped my family. Over the past week I have read the stores of @teecycletim and @robertjames1 (both from Twitter) the struggles they are facing and the amazing stories of the Milwaukee community stepping up to aid them.
Based on what has happened (and the fact my wife decided to throw in the movie "Pay It Forward")I want to see this through and really take it to the next level.
Much like my topics of "Give This New Year Away" have been meant to encourage..I want my vision for the "Pay It Forward Project" to do the same.
Will you please consider joining me on this journey, one that will hopefully begin a positive revolution in our community!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
More updates...Paying It Forward!
What a week this has been…if you had told me 7 days ago all that would have transpired in this time, I would have laughed in your face.
Last Thursday night, I was feeling like I was at one of the lowest points of my life (but believe me there have been lower). Our mortgage company bearing down on us, I totaled our van and our basement was flooding.
After a weird moment of clarity in the midst of things (and after numerous offers for help) I decided to create a blog post, what has now become not only a Twitter trending topic, but now the inspiration for an upcoming local article (more details on that later)
One of my good friends, and someone who has been a mentor and inspiration for me over the last 6 years described me as “Milwaukee’s George Bailey”. I was and still am extremely humbled by the comment. When I envision Jimmy Stewart’s character in “It’s a Wonderful Life” I think of the young man who gave up his dreams and ambitions to stay in Bedford Falls, run his father’s building and loan, and in the end helping and positively effecting the lives of many in his town.
Over my life (especially the last 20 years) I have prided myself on helping where I can, volunteering, offering support…while trying to stay out of the “spotlight” (OK the Channel 10 auction is the exception…lol). I guess during that time I have either not been as humble as I thought I was, or more people that I realize have been paying attention to what I have been doing.
That’s what makes what happened starting Saturday even more amazing to me. As I posted our “request” for $1 each from my social media friends, I could have never imagined the response that came in. To date, we have been blessed with over $1,900, meaning I will be going to the bank for the first cashiers check for our mortgage company (which I will be posting a picture of on Twitter right before I send it)
Along with the financial donations, we have been blessed with a few amazing offers as well to help us with our vehicle needs.
More importantly, this has opened my eyes even wider to the needs of others in our community. Two Twitter friends come to mind, who have experience huge losses in the last month.
@RobertJames1 of First Priority Printing saw his building burn down after a tragic lightning strike in Mequon about a month ago. @Teecycle_Org had his house suffer catastrophic flood damage.
These are two of the many stories we are all hearing about, and I feel they are much worse that the situation that my family is in.
We all know others, people that aren’t followed by hundreds of people on Twitter and Facebook, people that aren’t using social media to let people know of their situations. I feel called to help these people in anyway I can.
If you know of anyone that needs help, get the word out, take some time to offer help (doesn’t always have to be money). Offer to make them dinner. If they have kids, offer babysitting for a few hours. Cut their lawn for them so they can get a break. Anything would be appreciated I am sure.
Milwaukee has shown me personally how amazingly caring they can be…let’s show the world what we can do and start a revolution of Paying It Forward!!
Last Thursday night, I was feeling like I was at one of the lowest points of my life (but believe me there have been lower). Our mortgage company bearing down on us, I totaled our van and our basement was flooding.
After a weird moment of clarity in the midst of things (and after numerous offers for help) I decided to create a blog post, what has now become not only a Twitter trending topic, but now the inspiration for an upcoming local article (more details on that later)
One of my good friends, and someone who has been a mentor and inspiration for me over the last 6 years described me as “Milwaukee’s George Bailey”. I was and still am extremely humbled by the comment. When I envision Jimmy Stewart’s character in “It’s a Wonderful Life” I think of the young man who gave up his dreams and ambitions to stay in Bedford Falls, run his father’s building and loan, and in the end helping and positively effecting the lives of many in his town.
Over my life (especially the last 20 years) I have prided myself on helping where I can, volunteering, offering support…while trying to stay out of the “spotlight” (OK the Channel 10 auction is the exception…lol). I guess during that time I have either not been as humble as I thought I was, or more people that I realize have been paying attention to what I have been doing.
That’s what makes what happened starting Saturday even more amazing to me. As I posted our “request” for $1 each from my social media friends, I could have never imagined the response that came in. To date, we have been blessed with over $1,900, meaning I will be going to the bank for the first cashiers check for our mortgage company (which I will be posting a picture of on Twitter right before I send it)
Along with the financial donations, we have been blessed with a few amazing offers as well to help us with our vehicle needs.
More importantly, this has opened my eyes even wider to the needs of others in our community. Two Twitter friends come to mind, who have experience huge losses in the last month.
@RobertJames1 of First Priority Printing saw his building burn down after a tragic lightning strike in Mequon about a month ago. @Teecycle_Org had his house suffer catastrophic flood damage.
These are two of the many stories we are all hearing about, and I feel they are much worse that the situation that my family is in.
We all know others, people that aren’t followed by hundreds of people on Twitter and Facebook, people that aren’t using social media to let people know of their situations. I feel called to help these people in anyway I can.
If you know of anyone that needs help, get the word out, take some time to offer help (doesn’t always have to be money). Offer to make them dinner. If they have kids, offer babysitting for a few hours. Cut their lawn for them so they can get a break. Anything would be appreciated I am sure.
Milwaukee has shown me personally how amazingly caring they can be…let’s show the world what we can do and start a revolution of Paying It Forward!!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Update on our situation and some clarification!
Great Sunday morning!!
First of all let me thank all of you for the love and support you have shown my family. It is times like these that really make you realize how special the world can be.
I do need to offer a little clarification on my last blog post, because it has taken on a life of its own.
Yes..we need to pay a lump sum to our mortgage company ($2100 by August 3 and then 3 subsequent payments of $1100 between Sept-Nov.) to halt the beginning of foreclosure proceedings. With my current work situation, this has been a struggle, but we are working this out.
Yes...we need help to be able to obtain a new vehicle for the family (since I totaled the other one on Thursday). We are talking with someone about a used minivan for about $2,000
That's where the $4,000 number came in...but somehow that number came up as the number that was needed for the house.
I have been 100% open and honest during this situation...here's where we are:
The main priority is a vehicle for us...we will only be able to have the loaner for a few more days. The house is a very close 2nd...as we had figured that we could probably scrape up the money for the payment, but have to let a few other things go to do it.
The money that has been donated to this point has relieved a huge burden of trying to figure out what will get paid...and for that we are extremely grateful.
The amazing support we have received...it literally is like the final minutes of "It's A Wonderful Life" when the whole town comes to the aid of George Bailey (Thanks DC for the reference to this).
I promise you...this is the beginning of something great. A few people have mentioned paying it forward...that is definitely not a question. Our family has always helped where we can, when we can...despite financial hardships. We are dedicated to doing more, more often.
Once again...from our entire family we say THANK YOU!! For everyone that has forwarded our story, has told their friends and have given the $1 (or more).
To close...while this has been amazing, please remember there are families that are in much worse situations than ours. I am fortunate enough to have a large network of friends via social media. Many families have been devastated by the recent flooding and have lost years of memories, thousands of dollars in possessions and much more.
Thank you again and God Bless!!
Jon & Holly Kurozawa
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
~ 1 Peter 5:7, NLT
First of all let me thank all of you for the love and support you have shown my family. It is times like these that really make you realize how special the world can be.
I do need to offer a little clarification on my last blog post, because it has taken on a life of its own.
Yes..we need to pay a lump sum to our mortgage company ($2100 by August 3 and then 3 subsequent payments of $1100 between Sept-Nov.) to halt the beginning of foreclosure proceedings. With my current work situation, this has been a struggle, but we are working this out.
Yes...we need help to be able to obtain a new vehicle for the family (since I totaled the other one on Thursday). We are talking with someone about a used minivan for about $2,000
That's where the $4,000 number came in...but somehow that number came up as the number that was needed for the house.
I have been 100% open and honest during this situation...here's where we are:
The main priority is a vehicle for us...we will only be able to have the loaner for a few more days. The house is a very close 2nd...as we had figured that we could probably scrape up the money for the payment, but have to let a few other things go to do it.
The money that has been donated to this point has relieved a huge burden of trying to figure out what will get paid...and for that we are extremely grateful.
The amazing support we have received...it literally is like the final minutes of "It's A Wonderful Life" when the whole town comes to the aid of George Bailey (Thanks DC for the reference to this).
I promise you...this is the beginning of something great. A few people have mentioned paying it forward...that is definitely not a question. Our family has always helped where we can, when we can...despite financial hardships. We are dedicated to doing more, more often.
Once again...from our entire family we say THANK YOU!! For everyone that has forwarded our story, has told their friends and have given the $1 (or more).
To close...while this has been amazing, please remember there are families that are in much worse situations than ours. I am fortunate enough to have a large network of friends via social media. Many families have been devastated by the recent flooding and have lost years of memories, thousands of dollars in possessions and much more.
Thank you again and God Bless!!
Jon & Holly Kurozawa
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
~ 1 Peter 5:7, NLT
Friday, July 23, 2010
Our family needs your help
This is hard for me to do, especially in a time when so many families are struggling financially and many more have been flooded in SE Wisconsin.
Desperate times require us to humble ourselves and ask for the help of others.
Within the last 8 days, our house has been flooded twice, our minivan (and sole family vehicle) was totaled in an accident and we found out we have 10 days to pay a large lump payment to our mortgage company. For those of you that know me and my work situation, you know this is difficult for us to handle. We have been blessed by help and offers from some amazing people.
We are in a situation where we need to come up with about $4,000 quickly. Due to lack of income and tough decisions...our credit is no good for loans.
I have over 1,100 friends on Twitter, 575 on Facebook and over 200 connections on LinkedIn. This is what I am asking...
If each of my friends on each of these social sites donated $1 each...well it would help us tremendously.
Our main goal is to get a new (ok a good used and running) minivan to transport our entire family.
$1...not much to ask for...can you help us?
I am humbling myself to all of you in this unusual forum...hoping that you can help us.
If you have any questions, please email me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com, on Twitter @JonKurozawa
UPDATE: per numerous requests...we have a PayPal account setup. go to www.paypal.com and you can send funds to jon.kurozawa@gmail.com Thanks all and God Bless!!
Desperate times require us to humble ourselves and ask for the help of others.
Within the last 8 days, our house has been flooded twice, our minivan (and sole family vehicle) was totaled in an accident and we found out we have 10 days to pay a large lump payment to our mortgage company. For those of you that know me and my work situation, you know this is difficult for us to handle. We have been blessed by help and offers from some amazing people.
We are in a situation where we need to come up with about $4,000 quickly. Due to lack of income and tough decisions...our credit is no good for loans.
I have over 1,100 friends on Twitter, 575 on Facebook and over 200 connections on LinkedIn. This is what I am asking...
If each of my friends on each of these social sites donated $1 each...well it would help us tremendously.
Our main goal is to get a new (ok a good used and running) minivan to transport our entire family.
$1...not much to ask for...can you help us?
I am humbling myself to all of you in this unusual forum...hoping that you can help us.
If you have any questions, please email me at jon.kurozawa@gmail.com, on Twitter @JonKurozawa
UPDATE: per numerous requests...we have a PayPal account setup. go to www.paypal.com and you can send funds to jon.kurozawa@gmail.com Thanks all and God Bless!!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Give This New Year Away #31 - Volunteer one day at a food pantry
Food pantries have become a resource for an increasing number of families, supplying them with necessary items to be able to feed them.
Like many organizations of this nature rely on not only donations, but volunteers.
Sorting, packing and distributing are a number of the things that food pantries need to do. Without volunteers, people can not get served.
Find a local food pantry...whether it is one of the larger ones in you city or a small church or community based one...contact them and see what help they need. One day a month would be a huge help for them.
Take it a step further and organize a group from work, your church or even friends and family and go together a day to volunteer.
Like many organizations of this nature rely on not only donations, but volunteers.
Sorting, packing and distributing are a number of the things that food pantries need to do. Without volunteers, people can not get served.
Find a local food pantry...whether it is one of the larger ones in you city or a small church or community based one...contact them and see what help they need. One day a month would be a huge help for them.
Take it a step further and organize a group from work, your church or even friends and family and go together a day to volunteer.
via Ping.fm
Friday, May 7, 2010
Give This New Year Away 30 - Plant some flowers (or a tree) with your family
Spring is a time of renewal, of new growth, of new beginnings.What a great time to help with new growth by planting flowers...at home, at someone else's home, at a business...there are many places to do it.Get your family together and plant flowers for an elderly neighbor or at a retirement community.Work with a group at your church and plant a garden at your church.Get your company to coordinate planting flowers in the city, on a boulevard or median flower plot.Looking for something longer lasting?
Get a tree seedling (or more) and plant them...creating a legacy for your family (and helping the environment at the same time)
Get a tree seedling (or more) and plant them...creating a legacy for your family (and helping the environment at the same time)
via Ping.fm
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Give This New Year Away #29 - Say YES to the kid's fundraisers
Spring is the time of renewal; grass greening, trees budding, flowers growing.It is also a time when we begin to see more fundraising efforts from kids (much like fall)
Personally I have seen a couple in recent weeks…Girl Scout Cookie tables at the grocery store (which I have a love for since my oldest daughter is a 5th grade Jr. Girl Scout) and Little League Baseball candy bar sales.I know a lot of times we get annoyed with the number of these selling opportunities we see, and it may seem like we are getting bombarded. Please remember one thing (especially those of you without children) lots of times, these fundraisers are required or necessary. Many Little League organizations require players to sell a certain amount of candy (don’t blame the kids)Though we can’t say yes to every single one of these (unless you just won the $258 million Powerball), consider saying yes to at least a few. IF you can’t buy, don’t just blow the kids off. Stop for a moment, find out more about what the kids are selling and if you can’t buy, respectfully decline.Also…now is the time that more and more charity run/walks and events pop up. Pick one or two (especially if they are presented by family or friends) and consider offering some financial support. Even a $5 or $10 pledge can make a difference.I know first hand how rough things can be financially, but one or two dollars here or there to benefit a group or organization is much more important that that bottle of soda, bag of chips or cup of over priced coffee is!**Special note to those of you with kids that do a lot of fundraising activities: remember the people that buy from you. If someone that has bought from you comes around selling something…make an effort to purchase from them. Personally this gets a little tough for our family (considering how many Girl Scout cookies and Cub Scout wreaths have been sold by my kids) but we do our best. It’s not a one way street!
Personally I have seen a couple in recent weeks…Girl Scout Cookie tables at the grocery store (which I have a love for since my oldest daughter is a 5th grade Jr. Girl Scout) and Little League Baseball candy bar sales.I know a lot of times we get annoyed with the number of these selling opportunities we see, and it may seem like we are getting bombarded. Please remember one thing (especially those of you without children) lots of times, these fundraisers are required or necessary. Many Little League organizations require players to sell a certain amount of candy (don’t blame the kids)Though we can’t say yes to every single one of these (unless you just won the $258 million Powerball), consider saying yes to at least a few. IF you can’t buy, don’t just blow the kids off. Stop for a moment, find out more about what the kids are selling and if you can’t buy, respectfully decline.Also…now is the time that more and more charity run/walks and events pop up. Pick one or two (especially if they are presented by family or friends) and consider offering some financial support. Even a $5 or $10 pledge can make a difference.I know first hand how rough things can be financially, but one or two dollars here or there to benefit a group or organization is much more important that that bottle of soda, bag of chips or cup of over priced coffee is!**Special note to those of you with kids that do a lot of fundraising activities: remember the people that buy from you. If someone that has bought from you comes around selling something…make an effort to purchase from them. Personally this gets a little tough for our family (considering how many Girl Scout cookies and Cub Scout wreaths have been sold by my kids) but we do our best. It’s not a one way street!
via Ping.fm
Give This New Year Away #28 - Work on cleaning up your neighborhood/community #EarthDay
Today is the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, a day when we are all supposed to remember the amazing resource we have been given with our planet and do what we can to protect it and save it.
One of the easiest way we can do something to help it to look right at home, in our yards, neighborhoods and immediate communities. One of the things our family loves to do (when the weather cooperates) if go for a walk around our neighborhood.
Take a half hour or more today to do the same…go for a walk. But along with doing this, bring a couple plastic grocery bags with you. If you see some trash, pick it up.
This may seem like a small mundane task, but if each of my 1,000+ followers on Twitter, 500+ friends on Facebook all did this, then encouraged all of their friends…pretty soon we have thousands of people all over the country taking a walk and cleaning up.
Go a step further, get a group together…from work, church or anywhere you participate. Find a local park to clean up. Go into a neighborhood that needs help. Go along a river and cleanup.
Do your kids play soccer, baseball…participate in scouting? Get those groups involved too.
Lots of simple little ways that we can make an impact. And of course there is always Reduce, Reuse and Recycle…the 3 R’s of making our planet a little better.
April 22nd is Earth Day, but let’s make everyday of the year Earth Day
One of the easiest way we can do something to help it to look right at home, in our yards, neighborhoods and immediate communities. One of the things our family loves to do (when the weather cooperates) if go for a walk around our neighborhood.
Take a half hour or more today to do the same…go for a walk. But along with doing this, bring a couple plastic grocery bags with you. If you see some trash, pick it up.
This may seem like a small mundane task, but if each of my 1,000+ followers on Twitter, 500+ friends on Facebook all did this, then encouraged all of their friends…pretty soon we have thousands of people all over the country taking a walk and cleaning up.
Go a step further, get a group together…from work, church or anywhere you participate. Find a local park to clean up. Go into a neighborhood that needs help. Go along a river and cleanup.
Do your kids play soccer, baseball…participate in scouting? Get those groups involved too.
Lots of simple little ways that we can make an impact. And of course there is always Reduce, Reuse and Recycle…the 3 R’s of making our planet a little better.
April 22nd is Earth Day, but let’s make everyday of the year Earth Day
via Ping.fm
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Give This New Year Away #27 - Volunteer your time and talent with Junior Achievement
When I was first approached 6 years ago about volunteering for Junior Achievement, I flashbacked to when I was in 6th grade and meeting once a week in the evening and working on building a business with other students. I had positive memories of the experience but didn't think I had much to offer.
In the 20+ years since I was first involved on that level, Junior Achievement has changed and dramatically improved. Now the JA programs is geared towards grades K-12, with in classroom programming and activities that teach kids business and economic principles, entrepreneurship and important skills needed in the business world.
All of this is great, but it cannot be done without volunteers. I have personally volunteered in classrooms from Kindergarten all the way up to high school and have realized how easy the program is for volunteers. One hour per week, 5-10 weeks (depending on the grade level) and all the materials and curriculum are provided for you.
No matter what field of work you are in, you can bring personal experiences with you to share with the kids.
Kids of all ages love to hear stories of where people work and what they do...especially if it is something that they have never heard of.
It's not that hard to volunteer that one hour per week...talk to your boss and maybe you can get a team of people from your company to do it.
You will not regret the time you spend helping build the future leaders of our great country.
For more information on Junior Achievement (in Wisconsin) please visit http://ping.fm/WOjXr
In the 20+ years since I was first involved on that level, Junior Achievement has changed and dramatically improved. Now the JA programs is geared towards grades K-12, with in classroom programming and activities that teach kids business and economic principles, entrepreneurship and important skills needed in the business world.
All of this is great, but it cannot be done without volunteers. I have personally volunteered in classrooms from Kindergarten all the way up to high school and have realized how easy the program is for volunteers. One hour per week, 5-10 weeks (depending on the grade level) and all the materials and curriculum are provided for you.
No matter what field of work you are in, you can bring personal experiences with you to share with the kids.
Kids of all ages love to hear stories of where people work and what they do...especially if it is something that they have never heard of.
It's not that hard to volunteer that one hour per week...talk to your boss and maybe you can get a team of people from your company to do it.
You will not regret the time you spend helping build the future leaders of our great country.
For more information on Junior Achievement (in Wisconsin) please visit http://ping.fm/WOjXr
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Give This New Year Away 26 -Send a Thank You Card To Someone Who May Not Expect It
Mail...something that most times we dread. Bills. Junk. Stuff we don't want to see.
How happy do you get when you receive something that is not asking for money, that is not selling something?
Christmas cards and birthday cards usually brighten the spirits of us all when we get them in the mail. But what about the rest of the year.
There are many people in our lives that we should say Thank You to, but we tend to forget about it.
The postman, the paper boy, garbage collectors. How about the cashier at the gas station you always stop in to that greets you like a close friend.
The waitress at your favorite restaurant that always goes the extra mile for you.
There are many people that we should thank...that would appreciate that extra little recognition.
Go out and buy an inexpensive package of Thank You cards and keep them with you. Next time you see someone that you want to thank, joy down a quick little note of appreciation...tell them why they are special, and let them know.
Who can you give one of these to today? Leave your comments of who you will write a Thank You note for and why.
How happy do you get when you receive something that is not asking for money, that is not selling something?
Christmas cards and birthday cards usually brighten the spirits of us all when we get them in the mail. But what about the rest of the year.
There are many people in our lives that we should say Thank You to, but we tend to forget about it.
The postman, the paper boy, garbage collectors. How about the cashier at the gas station you always stop in to that greets you like a close friend.
The waitress at your favorite restaurant that always goes the extra mile for you.
There are many people that we should thank...that would appreciate that extra little recognition.
Go out and buy an inexpensive package of Thank You cards and keep them with you. Next time you see someone that you want to thank, joy down a quick little note of appreciation...tell them why they are special, and let them know.
Who can you give one of these to today? Leave your comments of who you will write a Thank You note for and why.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Give This New Year Away #25 - Here's A Tip
Leave an enormous tip for your server after a meal in a restaurant. Who knows what kind of day that person has had? That little gesture might make a big difference in his or her day. In fact, I'll take this one a bit further. Say you happen to sit down in a restaurant and it is obvious you server has had it. Maybe the service is so poor that you find yourself tempted to skip the gratuity all together. Well in that case give more!! And don't worry about the extra tip validating the server's rudeness. That's not up to you. You never know what someone may be going through. People are hurting all around you and this is just another small way you can make a big impact.
Remember, God doesn't give grace only to those who deserve it. If that were the case, none of us would receive it. We are called to give because Christ first gave to us.
Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us ~ 1 Chronicles 29:14
Taken from "101 Simple and Thoughtful Ways to Give This Christmas Away" written by Matthew West
Remember, God doesn't give grace only to those who deserve it. If that were the case, none of us would receive it. We are called to give because Christ first gave to us.
Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us ~ 1 Chronicles 29:14
Taken from "101 Simple and Thoughtful Ways to Give This Christmas Away" written by Matthew West
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