Reflecting on My Birthday: Memories, Love, and Hope

Today is my birthday, a day to pause and reflect on the many memories that have shaped my life. On this day in 1977, I was born, and it was a day marked by an unusual twist—our house was broken into and all of our things were stolen. I often joke that they’re still trying to figure out which one of us was the better choice!

Growing up, Hudson Avenue Baptist Church was a cornerstone of my childhood. Brother Dennis Thomas was my first pastor, and his dedication to the church was inspiring. He was always doing something for the church and expected everyone else to be involved as well, almost like he thought we were all part of his personal volunteer army. His enthusiasm instilled in us what it was to be a true servant, leading by example and showing us the heart of service in everything he did—so much so that even on  days off, people might feel guilty for not showing up with a mop and bucket!

When I was seven, my family went to help Brother Joe Watson with a new work he had started. It was there that I first saw the woman I was going to marry. Though I was only seven years old at the time, I knew she was special, even though she didn’t like me much back then. But persistence paid off, and she eventually became my wife.

Tammeria and Charlie Killman were like a second family to me. Brother Charlie is the reason I wanted to sing tenor, and he still is my favorite tenor to this day. His presence was a guiding light in my formative years. I fondly recall that the only reason I ever took my first steps was because Brother Charlie offered me a cookie. That small, sweet gesture was all the encouragement I needed to walk.

I also remember staying at my Grandma and Grandpa Willey's house. We would sit for hours, and Grandpa would teach me the ins and outs of baseball, including the unwritten rules—like how if a batter shows up a pitcher, the batter will get pegged his next at-bat. Grandpa had his own way of explaining things, often with a wink and a smile, making even the most complex baseball etiquette seem like a grand adventure. Despite passing away when I was five, Grandpa’s lessons and love for baseball left a lasting impact on me.

In high school, I was privileged to attend a Christian school where one special teacher, Jerri Rieker, made a profound impact on me. She had an incredible ability to genuinely connect with teenagers—a rare gift—and loved us with all her heart. Her influence during my junior high and high school years was significant, and her dedication to her students has stayed with me.

At the age of 20, I was born again, and it was a transformative experience that changed my entire outlook on life. This spiritual awakening brought new purpose and direction, infusing my life with hope and meaning. The members of Victory Baptist Church, such as the Delays and the Barns, played a significant role throughout the years, and I am thankful for their support and guidance.

However, at 35, my world was turned upside down with the onset of dystonia and other mental health challenges. These trials have taught me profound lessons about resilience, acceptance, and the strength that lies within vulnerability. Through it all, my wife of 26 years has been my rock. Her unwavering support and love have carried me through the darkest times, and I love her more now than ever.

I am thankful I was able to sit under the preaching of my father, the wisest man I have ever known. His teachings and guidance have profoundly influenced my life, and I am grateful for every lesson he imparted. Now, my little brother has taken up the mantle as pastor. Oh, the stories I could tell! If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that family dynamics in the ministry are never dull. Sometimes it feels like I should start taking notes for a future sitcom!

My mother was the exemplary example of what a wife and mother should be. I remember our many talks—she could talk until she was blue in the face—and her patience while teaching me math, especially sets. I’m sure she remembers those lessons with a smile, and I’ll always be grateful for her dedication and love.

I now have children of my own, and I couldn’t ask for a better mother for them. If I could be half the man my father was, I would consider it an incredible achievement. Watching my children grow and nurturing them into adulthood has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and now, seeing my grandchildren brings a new level of happiness and pride.

Recently, I reconnected with my cousin Amy, a reunion that has been a true blessing. It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of family and the bonds that keep us connected despite the passage of time.

I'm also thankful to my family for instilling in me a love for Gospel music. I probably know the words to about 3,000 songs. It's like my brain is a jukebox, ready to belt out a tune at the drop of a hat—much to the amusement (or dismay) of those around me!

As I look to the future, I am excited to continue sharing my journey with anyone who wants to read it. My hope is that my experiences, both the joyful and the challenging, can encourage someone along the way. Life is a tapestry of moments, each woven with love, faith, and hope.

For some reason, Hudson Avenue still feels like my home church. It’s as if no matter where I go, I’m still a few steps away from that familiar place. And I fondly remember the house on NW 64th Street—so much so that I can even recall my old phone number: 721-8164. Those memories are a part of who I am, and they continue to bring a sense of warmth and belonging to my heart, like a well-worn blanket that fits just right.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.