Neil Cole: Lifeguard

A former California lifeguard, Neil Cole, tells this story. For several years I worked as a lifeguard on the beaches of Southern California. Lifeguards have one prime directive: to save lives. They also have many other tasks to do on the side and they are paid to do...

An exercise in visioncasting

In order to grow and keep moving forward, we need to know where we’re headed. Nice-sounding but vague goals may seem helpful, but actually serve to hold us back. For instance, we want disciples but haven’t clarified what a disciple looks like. Or we want to develop...

Thoughts on delegation

What’s your motivation for delegation? Desire to develop others and help them grow Focus on what only you can do (God’s calling) Make a greater ministry impact: how what they are doing advances the kingdom of God Why don’t we delegate? We don’t plan ahead so things...

Balance and a full range of motion

I’ve found that people in the physical therapy field are fond of saying, “Strength is not enough– balance is also important.” Sometimes football players are incredibly strong but their balance is terrible. They need both of those to do their jobs– and all...

Corrective movement

As I’m getting prepared to take a four-day bike trip in mid-August, I’ve been doing some tune-ups.  As you may know, I had quad surgery a while back.  I did the assisted rehab and they did an outstanding job. However, I found during recovery that the body would...

A well-timed word

Quite a few years back when I was finishing up a big project, someone pointed out to me that my drivenness to get the thing done was wearing others out. That comment caused me to reflect on my workaholism and perfectionism and make some adjustments. I recognized the...