tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32099976730038683372024-03-08T16:19:19.399-08:00Tyson P. LeeTyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-57701095839560438582014-12-09T17:01:00.004-08:002014-12-09T19:48:34.782-08:00A wife. A baby. A mission. <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">My last blog
ended with a simple statement that read:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It all began with a cup of
coffee and lead to a proposal and a wedding. Maybe the next cup of coffee will
lead to kids..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wellllll…. Since our wedding
night, I’ve had quite a bit of coffee and our baby boy, Zeke, was born November
24, 2014. Things have been crazy to say the least. I’ve become a husband and a
father in less than 10 months. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The last time I
posted something, it was about being married. As I write this, I have an
incredible view. It’s not the view of the ocean from the sand or the view of
the mountains from a cabin with a cup of coffee in hand, although I’m a fan of
both of those. It’s the view of my son that I can see as I look over the top of
my laptop. This view is breathtaking. It’s surreal. I sit here and wonder what
he will be like in the years to come. I wonder what his personality will be
like. Will he enjoy school? Will he enjoy sports? Will he want to go to
college? The list goes on but the biggest question I think that comes to my mind
is will he be able to say his dad, me, loved Him in a way that pointed him to
Jesus?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now that’s a
question that has some weight to it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Although I love
my son, my marriage comes before him. When Christa and I said “I do” on
February 8, 2014 and we became one flesh, we entered into a covenant with each
other. Our covenant is life-long. Our covenant is what pushes us to love one
another even when we don’t “feel” like it. Our marriage comes before our child.
Why? If our marriage is strong and our relationship is healthy, we can love our
child the way he needs to be loved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Marriage: How
would I describe it? A gift. A blessing. A lot of work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Growing up,
marriage was something that I always desired. I dreamed of being able to sit
around the dinner table and eat a meal with my wife and kids. I imagined what
it would be like to come home from a long day at work to see my wife and hear
someone say something like “daddy’s home” or "hey baby, how was your day?" I wondered what it would be like to
enjoy the simple things in life like getting home from work and being able to
spend time with my own family. These were all ideas I had while I was growing
up, and things are beginning to become real for me. I’ve been married for 10
months now and things are just moving right along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">One of the best
things I’ve experienced in marriage has been pulling into my driveway at night
and in the depths of my soul knowing I’m in love with one woman and I’ve been
faithful to her. Praise the Lord for what He has done in my heart because if it
wasn’t for Him, my pulling into the driveway wouldn’t be peaceful if I was
trying to hide something from my wife. I’ve come to realize this in my
marriage, seeing the ordinary things as extraordinary creates a heart of
gratitude. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">So, is marriage
full of sweet, romantic, affectionate nights where you look one another in the
eyes and get swept away by the other persons’ presence? Is my wife a queen that
meets my every need and I don’t lack because she has everything I’ll ever need?
As a husband, am I my wife’s knight in shining armor that fulfills her every
need? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I mean surely
our marriage is full of butterflies, goose bumps, and feelings of bliss, right?
There is no way there are times within our marriage where we have to fight for
love and fight to love one another because one has sinned against the other,
right? I mean, marriage, has fulfilled all my goals, dreams, desires, and longings,
right? Surely, being able to have sex whenever you want was the “fix” to all
sexual desires, right? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh the lies the
enemy wants us to believe before and during marriage. These “simple” statements
will absolutely bring disaster to you, your spouse, and your marriage if you
really think that’s what marriage is all about. The biggest truth I learned prior
to marriage and still believe to be 100% true is this: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“My wife can’t
be my savior.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If there is one
thing that I believe to be truer than anything in marriage it’s this: whenever
I make my wife my savior, she becomes an idol. When I elevate her to this place,
she’s destined to let me down, and I’m destined to see her as a crappy savior. Your spouse/future spouse can't be your savior.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you’re
married and you’ve been disappointed in marriage because it hasn’t been what
you thought it would be, it’s probably because you came in with unrealistic
expectations about marriage. You have to take a step back and realize that your
spouse can’t be everything you want him/her to be. That’s a sobering truth for
many. Truth, at times, is devastating but it's also liberating. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you’re
single, I encourage you to stay away from books, movies, and television shows
that portray a false idea of love that you begin to desire. There is no person
in the entire world that can fulfill your every need. You will NEVER find
someone that is perfect and you will NEVER find someone that can give you all
you need. You will NEVER be perfect for someone either. If you’re able to
understand this prior to marriage, you will save yourself, and your spouse, a
lot of pain and confusion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The biggest lie
that many men (and women) believe is when they finally get married and find
“the one” life is just dandy. Don’t believe it. It’s not true. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Marriage is
amazing when Jesus is the center and the husband and wife see themselves as
broken people that can’t fulfill the needs of the other without Jesus Christ. A marriage that has Christ as the foundation will meet obstacles head
on and work their way through them. There will still be hard days, hard
conversations, and hard seasons, but those “hard” things are softened when
Christ is elevated. Believe it or not, a marriage that has Christ at the center
will not only be fun, enjoyable, and fulfilling at times, but there will be
great, hot, intimate sex. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Why? Because you
realize that sex isn’t for you. It’s for the glory of God and it’s to serve
your spouse. Now THAT isn’t in movies or in books, but I can assure you, from
experience, that seeing sex as a gift from God, for His glory, is pretty fun and
productive! </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">My passion is for
men to be who God has called them to be is still present and will always be
something that drives me in my life. As a father, I think my passion has been
reignited in this area. Manhood has been reduced to boyish behaviors and the
saddest part of all is many have accepted these behaviors as being manly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">What do we have
in culture right now? We have many grown boys that shave. We have so many boys
that want the privileges of adulthood without the responsibilities. There are
many that are more concerned with their paycheck than they are with the path of
their family and kids. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">A manhood reality
for many in our current culture:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Men are lonely
and hurting but don’t know what to do with their pain. They turn to excessive
work, women, alcohol, drugs, and/or other things that provide momentary
pleasure but never fully satisfy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">A mission worth
living for and a task worth dying for is one that upholds Jesus as King. I
think the way we, as men and women, can do this is by loving our neighbors. We can truly
promote Jesus as King when we begin to see needs around us and rather than
talking about what needs to be done, we begin doing things that need to be
done. A man doesn’t talk about what needs to be done and let it remain as is; a
man sees what needs to be done and becomes part of the solution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">My heart’s
desire for my family is that we will be on mission for the Kingdom of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Will it be hard? Every. Single. Day. Will it be worth it? Absolutely!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">As I think about
my wife, my son, and our family, I believe our mission, together, is summed up
best in the book of Isaiah.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: #FDFEFF; color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: #FDFEFF; color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“The Spirit of the
Lord <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">GOD</span> is upon me, because
the <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">LORD</span> has anointed
me</span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <span style="background: #FDFEFF;">to bring
good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,</span> <span style="background: #FDFEFF;">to proclaim liberty to the captives,</span> <span style="background: #FDFEFF;">and the opening of the prison to those who are
bound;</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <span style="background: #FDFEFF; color: #001320;">to proclaim
the year of the <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">LORD</span>’s
favor,</span><span style="color: #001320;"> <span style="background: #FDFEFF;">and
the day of vengeance of our God;</span> <span style="background: #FDFEFF;">to
comfort all who mourn;” Isaiah 61:1-2</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lord, help us do these things for your glory. For those of
you that read this blog, I pray this encourages you to be on mission for the Kingdom
wherever you are in your life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Until next time <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love,<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tyson<o:p></o:p></div>
Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-46415819877443739482013-12-30T11:34:00.003-08:002013-12-30T12:34:09.013-08:00A Cup of Coffee and a ProposalIf you haven't heard the news by now you are late. I am engaged and getting married February 8, 2014. I wanted to take the time to post a blog since it has been a little while and a lot has changed since the last one. After leaving the NFL, I moved back to Mississippi and began working with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Mississippi State University (MSU) and it has been a blessing. The next blessing came soon after I took the job. I began dating a woman that loves Jesus and she quickly stole my heart. :) Here is how it all happened...<br />
<br />
While I was working in St. Louis, I spent a lot of time pursuing the Lord and understanding what it meant to be content in singleness and become the man God created me to be. I realized I wasn't ready to be in a relationship although for a long time I thought I was. The more I read the Word and prayed to the Lord I realized I was not where I needed to be in my personal walk with Christ and it was time to step it up and make a change. It began with praying, reading the Word, journaling, and talking to brothers that were running after the Lord in their own lives. While I was learning what it meant to be completely devoted to the Lord in my personal life without the expectation of finding a spouse, I met a woman. Yes, I met THE woman. My soon to be wife. (40 days away to be exact but who's counting).<br />
<br />
Christa Danielle Hudson was an admissions counselor for Mississippi State and she was working in the St. Louis area last year. She lived in Memphis, TN but travelled through Illinois and Missouri to recruit high school students to MSU. I saw she was coming up to St. Louis one week, and I knew she wouldn't know anyone so I asked her if she wanted to grab coffee while she was in town and just chat. We met at a Starbucks that was down from my house and talked for about 2 hours. At this time, I thought Christa and I had already met because we had similar friends while we were in school together at MSU, but I found out later that this was our first time ever meeting. We talked about our jobs, our passions, our desires, our goals, and what we sensed the Lord doing in our lives at that time. I knew from the beginning that this was a WOMAN and a special one. She loved Jesus. She loved talking about Jesus. She loved talking about what He had saved her from. She loved talking about how He continued to redeem her and restore her life. She loved people. She talked about her friends. She talked about her desire to pour into the lives of young women. As we talked, I was blown away by the woman I met for a cup of coffee. She was unlike any woman I had met before because the focus was never her. It was always Christ and others. She smiled the whole time.. because of me, of course :). Her laugh. It is still something I love about her. It is infectious and those that know her enjoy it as well. After she finished her hot chocolate and I finished my skinny vanilla latte, we kept talking because it was going well. My only reason for wanting to get coffee with her was to chat and just say hello since she was in town. We finished the night and went our separate ways and we said we would meet up again next time she was in St. Louis if I could get away from work. Well, she came up again a month or so later and we went to a professional hockey game and just talked about life and what the Lord was doing and had done since we last met. It was fun but we were both very much intentional about not allowing ourselves to see our time together as anything more than friends that were hanging out. The sweetest thing about the time we spent together was the topics of conversation each time. We talked about so much. From the very beginning, we were honest with one another and made communication a priority. We talked about things she had experienced and things she had seen others experience which allowed me to see her for who she was. The last time she came to St. Louis we only saw one another for about 30 minutes. We met for some ice cream and chatted before I had to be back to work and I thought that would be the last time we saw one another unless she came back to the city for work........<br />
<br />
So, we hung out 3 times in St. Louis for a combined time of about 4 hours and that was all. But, those 4 hours seemed like 4 years. I knew her. I was falling for her and didn't even know it. Christa was very intentional about not allowing herself to be lead by her emotions/feelings which made our friendship doable because there were no expectations even though we hung out with one another. Although I felt like I knew her and knew her well, I was extremely cautious of how much we talked because I didn't want to lead her on and I wasn't at a place where I was ready to pursue a relationship. I kept running after Jesus and the more I ran after Him the more I saw her running after Him and I wanted her to join me so we could run together... for Christ. So....<br />
<br />
I moved back to Mississippi and began working with FCA. Christa and I would occasionally hang out if she was ever in Starkville for work but it wasn't anything serious.<br />
I came to a point in my own life that I was ready to be in a relationship. I called Christa on a Tuesday morning and told her how much I had enjoyed spending time with her and I wanted to pursue her with intentions of dating and marrying her.<br />
<b>I believe dating should be done with the intent to marry. Period. If you aren't ready to marry then you aren't ready to date. </b><br />
<br />
The following weekend I went to Memphis with her and saw her interact with her friends there and it affirmed everything I already knew about her. She loves people. She loves serving. She loves laughing. After church that Sunday (July 21, 2013) we went back to her apt and I asked her to be my girlfriend. She said yes. It was great. :)<br />
<br />
I will go ahead and tell you that I knew that day I wanted to marry this woman. I knew I had found my wife. I knew I found the woman that I wanted to come alongside me and do damage for the Kingdom. The only thing I had to do now was save the money for the ring.<br />
<br />
Let's get a cup of coffee has a different meaning now doesn't it? I would say it does.<br />
I asked Christa to be my girlfriend July 21, 2013.<br />
I asked her to marry me October 26, 2013.<br />
We are getting married February 8, 2014.<br />
<br />
I have always wondered how I would propose to my wife. About a year and half ago I began writing letters to my future wife. They would begin with "Dear Future Wife" and they would be about things I was praying for her that day. Some of them consisted of things I was praying for us and how I looked forward to meeting her and doing work for the Lord together. I had written 10 letters and they were all dated at the top. I called Christa's dad and asked him could I stop by to talk to him, so I went to her parent's house and asked her dad for his daughter's hand in marriage. What a sweet day. I then called some of Christa's friends and told them I would be proposing and wanted them to be to celebrate with us. This is how it went down...<br />
<br />
Christa and I had planned a cookout with her family and mine about a month earlier so I knew this would be a great time. We drove to meet them where everyone already was waiting on us. I laid out 8 letters for her to read on the table inside and my brother instructed her and told her what to do. After she read the first 8 letters that I laminated and put in envelopes, she realized the last two were empty and my brother told her she had to go outside to get those. Once she walked out back, she saw both of our families and all of our friends lined on the outside of the sidewalk that lead down to the pier. I was waiting on her at the bottom with the last 2 letters. Once she made her way down to the bottom, I read the last 2 letters that no longer began with "Dear Future Wife" but they began with "Dear Christa." I read the last 2 letters and grabbed my ring that was placed down on the dock in a bucket of Halloween candy and asked her to marry me. She said yes with a big smile and tears rolling down her face. I told her I wanted a woman that would join me and do damage for the Kingdom and I found her. She will be my wife. February 8, 2014 will be a day of celebration and worship. God is so faithful. He loves me. He loves Christa. He loves you.<br />
<br />
Christa and I hope that our relationship is a picture of the gospel.<br />
"That they may see and know, may consider and understand together, that the hand of the Lord has done this, the Holy One of Israel has created it." Isaiah 41:20<br />
<br />
It all began with a cup of coffee and lead to a proposal and a wedding. Maybe the next cup of coffee will lead to kids............<br />
<br />
Happy New Year! :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-7285029398474696482013-04-29T07:23:00.000-07:002013-04-29T07:31:41.693-07:00Why I am leaving the NFL: Walking by faith and fighting for our generationThe last year has been an amazing experience working with
the St. Louis Rams in their scouting department. I’ve enjoyed it more than I
ever could have imagined. I learned so much and developed friendships that will
last a lifetime. I feel so honored to have been able to be part of such a premier
organization, and I will always remember the things I learned and the people I
met along the way. Life is all about relationships. From the security guards,
janitors, maintenance crew, nutritionist, coaches, marketing department, and
everyone else, I feel blessed that I was able to meet so many awesome
people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though I feel like I could
have done well in this career and been successful, sometimes the Lord calls us
to something else. He doesn’t always call the qualified but He will qualify the
called. Early in the year, I read a quote that truly impacted me in more ways
than I could have imagined. Here is the quote:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Who stands fast? Only the man whose final
standard is not his reason, his principles, his conscience, his freedom, or his
virtue, but who is ready to sacrifice all this when he is called to obedient
and responsible action in faith and in exclusive allegiance to God – the responsible
man, who tries to make his whole life an answer to the question and call of
God.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After I read this, I wrote it down and read it often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being in the NFL is a dream
come true for many and a memory that I will remember the rest of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being part of 1 of 32 teams is an honor and
one that I never took for granted. Although it was great, something was missing
for me as if I had a void in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
would evaluate players, write my reports, go to games, travel to private
workouts, but when we would begin talking about players and their backgrounds,
I was immediately drawn to their off the field issues more than I was their
ability to play football.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over and over
again the same information seemed to be present in their lives “Single parent
home. No father. This kid needs a man in his life. He doesn’t have anyone to
lead him. His role models are absent.” It spoke to my heart and the Lord
continued to speak throughout the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our world is in need of men that will step up to the plate and take a
stand for their families. Our world is in need of a generation of men to rise
up and make a difference for the future. Kids have nobody to look up to these
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they do have someone to look up
to it’s usually a figure that isn’t a good one. It’s usually one that will lead
them down the wrong path. I want the youth of today to be able to look around
them and see men who act like men. I’ve seen too many kids make decisions that
changed their life forever because they lacked people in their life that could
help them. I desire for them to see men who love their wives. I desire for them
to see men who pursue, honor, and respect their wives. I desire to see men who
love their kids. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I desire to see men who
spend time with their families and make them a priority. I desire to see men
that quit worrying so much about themselves and more about others. I desire to
see men that will say no to things that bring them instant gratification and
yes to things that will bring delayed satisfaction. I desire to see men that
are givers. I desire to see men that care more about others than themselves. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I desire to see men that will seek help to
make their lives better which will make their families better. I desire to see men that will quit finding their identity in their jobs and find it in Christ. I desire to see men that won't sacrifice their family for a career. These are the
men I am looking for and the man I ultimately want to be. I want to see a
generation of men rise up and take back the streets. I want to see a generation
of men rise up and take back their homes. I want to see a generation of men
rise up and take back their relationships with their kids. I want to see a
generation of men rise up and take back the schools. I want to see a generation
of men rise up and take back neighborhoods. I want to see a generation of men
rise up and take back what has been stolen. I want to see a generation of men
rise up and take back the church. I want to see a generation of men rise up and
be who God has called them to be. I’ve seen enough boys to know that we have
plenty of them. The sad thing is many of those boys are grown men who haven’t
grown up yet. A lot of older men are chasing women, dreams, drugs, alcohol, and
other things that will NEVER bring ultimate satisfaction while their families
are suffering. Not only are their families suffering but they are suffering as
well. No matter who you are, where you come from, what you do, or what you
have, the Lord wants to use you and will use you if you will just say yes to
Him. You have a purpose. You matter. You’re life counts for more than just you.
You’re loved. You’re needed. You’re wanted. My heart’s desire as I leave the
NFL is to see the Lord change the hearts of men and bring them home. I want to
see divorced couples reunite. I want to see absent fathers become present. I
want to see those in bondage set free. I want to see broken families restored.
I want to see kids that others say are hopeless become something. I want to see
troubled youth change their life. I want to see lives changed. It all begins
within each of us. I know I serve the almighty God. I serve the One who is in
control of all things and able to do all things. To Him I cling and to Him I
look for restoration and redemption.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a
child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.”
1 Corinthians 13:11<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will be moving back to Mississippi to take a full time job
with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) on campus at Mississippi State. I
will be able to work with athletes and coaches, and I look forward to seeing
the Lord work. Is there something the Lord has been calling you to but you are
scared to say yes? I want to remind you that He is faithful. He provides. He
loves you and cares for you and wants to work in your life. Don’t let what
others say or don’t say hold you back. Don’t let your parents or anyone steer
your life for you. Say yes to Christ if He is speaking. When our lives are over
we will realize that one thing matters: What we did to impact or invest in the
life of another person. It’s not about you. Love God. Love people. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Join me on this journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This journey will be long and tough but full of hope and victory as long
as we keep Christ in the center. We fight battles on a daily basis. When it’s
all said and done may we all be able to say as Paul did:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I
have kept the faith.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Timothy 4:7<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Make your life an answer to the question and call of God!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keep fighting,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tyson<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-66261888239171438962012-10-06T00:31:00.001-07:002012-10-06T00:32:47.333-07:00Revival begins with honesty: I'm laying it all out there!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I </span>chose to write this blog now because the Lord has been really working in my heart the last few months, and I felt it was time to share. I'm trusting and believing the Lord is bringing revival in your life. It can only be done when we lay it <b>ALL</b> at the foot of the cross. What is it that's keeping you from being able to experience Christ 100%? </span> What secrets are you hiding? What are you holding back? It's time for a generation to stand up and make a difference in this world. I want you to know that it is okay to share your struggles and weaknesses because it's in our weaknesses that Christ is made strong (2 Corinthians 12:9). I chose to write this blog because I felt the Lord leading me to do it, and I truly desire to see change in this world. It will begin with those of us that follow Christ. Christians now days are some of the weakest people I know. Christ calls us to be <b>bold</b>. He calls us to be <b>courageous</b>. He tells us to take up our cross daily and follow Him. It's time. Lets' get it!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Growing
up, I had a problem with pornography. I never struggled with alcohol, drugs, bad language, etc. I think the first time I was
exposed to it was at a friend’s house in junior high. His dad had magazines and they were in a place where he could get them, so we would look at them when nobody was around. After I was
exposed to that, it was something that became a big struggle. As I grew older, pornography on the internet became a struggle and was a
constant struggle for a while. In high school, I wasn’t
into pornography on the internet that much although I would look on occasions.
In college, it became more of a struggle because I had more alone time. I went
through phases where I wouldn’t look at it at all and didn’t want to look at it
because I knew it was wrong, and then I would slowly ease into a phase where I
looked at it again. I came to a point where I was sick
of doing something that I knew wasn’t going to bring complete satisfaction. I
was searching for <b>instant pleasure</b> rather than <b>delayed satisfaction.</b> Since Adam and Eve were in the garden, our <b>craving</b> for instant gratification has always been present. It's in all aspects of our lives. We want things now. Everything is about convenience to us. I knew that I couldn’t make it on my own in this battle and I was sick of falling into the sin, so I paid and downloaded a software on my
computer that would send emails to one of my best friends if<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I visited a web site that was inappropriate.
It was the <b>best</b> thing I have ever done in my life. Once I downloaded
the software and developed <b>accountability,</b> I stopped struggling with it. I
don't have a desire to look at it anymore <b>praise God.</b> There would be times where I
would think about it, but I reminded myself of the <b>COVENANT </b>I made with the Lord and my accountability partner, so by the power of the Spirit I was able to fight the temptation (Matthew 26:41). Once I was able to let that go, I was no longer <b>bound in chains </b>to any of that inappropriate material, and I haven't looked since I made that covenant with God and with my friend. There is nothing like the
feeling of being <b>FREE</b> from that way of life. <b>NO GUILT. NO SHAME</b>. I know many people have different problems, and I'm here to tell you that the Lord can <b>DELIVER</b> you from whatever you are struggling with in your life. I don't know what your area is, but the Lord wants to deliver you from it if you will let Him. The devil
wants to make you feel <b>defeated</b>, but there is <b>VICTORY </b>in Jesus Christ. Hallelujah. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b>Accountability</b> is what helped me attack another area of my life
that I struggled in. I found out accountability is someone that is willing to step on your toes and get <b>ALL IN YOUR BUSINESS. </b>Once you choose someone to become your accountability partner, you are making yourself <b>vulnerable</b> so choose that person wisely. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable. Satan wants you to fear that because once you get it out, that's when you can begin to change. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">"A person who confesses their sins in the presence of a brother or sister knows that he or she is no longer alone with themselves. They can experience the presence of God in the reality of the others." Dietrich Bonhoeffer</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I committed myself to being a virgin years ago and I have
maintained that, but I have given into sexual temptations. I always told myself that I wanted to save myself for marriage because I
felt it was sacred and intimate, and I wanted to let my wife know that I waited
for her. I ‘ve had to remind myself that a self-righteous attitude about that
is completely wrong and I’ve had that creep in often. Many times, we think if we aren't doing as much as someone else then we are "better" and that <b>justification</b> makes us feel better, but it's wrong either way because it's sin and <b>God hates sin</b>. I allowed myself to give
into sexual temptations because my reasons for not doing it were
based on <b>performance</b> rather than <b>love</b> for Christ. I was raised in the church, so I always saw it as “bad” and I wanted to stay away from it and say no, but that
can only last so long. It wasn’t until I realized it was <b>MY SIN</b> that put Jesus on the cross. But, it was <b>HIS LOVE FOR ME THAT HELD HIM THERE</b>. I would participate in inappropriate conversations on social media and in
person. I would allow myself to talk about things that were completely wrong
and inappropriate, but I would justify what I did or what I was doing by
comparing myself to another person. I forgot that the <b>STANDARD</b> was <b>Jesus Christ</b>. I was using other people as my standard. There was no <b>true repentance </b>in my life after I committed my sins. I was only saying sorry because I felt bad. At that time, I didn't see my sin as being <b>grieving</b> to the Lord. I got sick of living in this world because I knew I wanted to be a <b>husband</b>
that loved my wife and never left her or cheated on her. I wanted to be a <b>father </b>that could look my child in the eyes and tell them what it means to be pure and be a man that fears God. I wanted to be a <b>man</b> of God that could talk to other young men about the importance of purity and clinging to Christ in all aspects of life. I wanted to be able to mold young men to boldly follow after Christ and let them know that by the power of the Spirit it was possible. I knew if I didn’t get a
grip on these things now, how would I control my urges or desires in the
future? I wanted to look at women as sisters and in purity, but I had failed at
that for so long. I wanted to know that I could look at a woman and not let my
thoughts or desires become inappropriate. I was reminded that every single woman was a woman that God loved and cherished. I began to see women as a daughter to someone. I
began to think about my sister. I love her with all of my heart as if she was my child. I began to think about how much I wanted her to marry a man that
was <b>God fearing </b>yet I was a man that was allowing my flesh to creep in all the
time. I began to think if I had a child one day and she was a girl, how could I
trust men if I wasn’t doing anything to be different than other men in the world? Most guys know what to say and
how to say it, and I didn’t want to be that guy. <b>Something had to change</b>. I knew I had to make a stand because I had fallen, and I didn't see anybody around me addressing these issues. I truly believe the <b>NUMBER ONE</b> failure for men today is their inability to fight sexual temptation. I'm aware of married men that are cheating on their wives. I know married men that struggle with pornography. I knew it was time. I knew that if men were going to start being men then something had to be done. It wasn't going to just happen because somebody wanted it to. I knew it was going to take stirring some things up for the Lord to be able to do what He wants. I had to allow myself to be vulnerable and transparent about my personal life so that we can begin to <b>be</b> the church. My accountability partner became a <b>REAL</b> accountability partner when these questions were asked one night: <b>WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST SECRET? WHAT SIN IS HOLDING YOU BACK?</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;">"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." James 5:16</span><br />
<div style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">My response to this began something that was
<b>transformational</b> in my life and will change this world if we will abide by it. I was able to lay out all my faults and shortcomings to my brother in Christ, and I was able to truly <b>repent</b> of my sin. I asked the Lord to forgive me for the things that I had done, renew my spirit, and create in me a clean heart. My accountability partner and I have not let up on one another and we won't let up because we have a battle that we are in every single day. <b>Find an accountability partner</b>. If Christians will begin to <b>BE REAL </b>with each other, we will see <b>revival</b> in this world. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">I want you to complete a <b>self-examination</b> in your own heart and life. What's your secret? What is keeping you from being able to truly experience the power of God at work in your life? What area is hindering you from being who God wants you to be? <b>Unconfessed sin</b> is hindering the Spirit from manifesting Himself in powerful ways. But, if we will understand that <b>grace is bigger than our sin </b>and lay our pride down at the foot of the cross, we can admit our mistakes and approach the throne of grace <b>boldly</b>. If you're hiding something, it's time to let it go. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;"><b>Acknowledge it. Confess. Repent. Move forward. </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;">To all my men, it's time for a change. We can't keep living in that sin and being defeated by it, and we can't let our brothers be defeated either. If we are MEN, we <b>call each other out in love</b> and remind one another of the <b>ultimate standard</b> which has been established by God himself. To all the women, it's time for you to be real with one another as well. Don't hide things from others because it creates a barrier between you and God. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;">My prayer is that the Holy Spirit would use this to begin a revival in your life. I'm trusting Him for that. I look forward to the work the Lord is going to do.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;">Keep it real!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><br /></span>Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-7471051548057220582011-10-26T11:06:00.000-07:002011-10-26T11:06:29.886-07:00Finally<span>It has been forever since I have posted a blog, but I wanted to try and get back doing it. I have been extremely busy lately with school and working two jobs but things are going great my way. The Lord has really been working in my life and showing me a few different things, and I will keep you updated on those as I get back to posting more regularly. I hope you have been doing well, and I just want to encourage you to stay strong and keep the faith today. Have a wonderful Wednesday!</span><br />
<span><br />
</span><br />
<span>Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.</span>Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-19291343380883297302011-06-26T06:55:00.000-07:002011-06-26T06:55:29.273-07:00Don't be afraid to failI am back! I have been extremely busy since school finished for the semester, so I have been lacking on my blog, but I plan to update it more often now! I wanted to share a quote I read from former President Theodore Ro<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">osev</span>elt and encourage you to press on. The only way to achieve is to try and in pursuit of that, failure occurs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”</span></span></span></h1><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have a great day!</span></div><br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-42407946593771522952011-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-20T00:00:03.502-07:00Family and Friend Fellowship, FridayI hope all of you have had a great week! I am excited about next week because my camps begin on Monday. It is the second year I have done my football camp, and I am very excited about it again this year. I had a good group of kids last year, so I am hoping things go well again this year! I want you to spend time with family and friends today and pray for Coach Al Schmidt. He is the head track and field coach at Mississippi State and he had surgery recently because of heart problems. Please pray for a speedy recovery and strength for him and his family during this time! Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-71277373946600141592011-05-19T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-19T00:00:03.427-07:00In the Arena<h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”</span></span></span></h1><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Theodore Roosevelt</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I recently came across this quote and loved it! The experience of victory and defeat are pivotal in our overall development! Don't be afraid to fail!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-8417872837973356412011-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-17T00:00:01.879-07:00Take the Time, TuesdayI want you to take the time, to pick out a favorite quote you have and put it somewhere that you can read it everyday. Maybe that quote will serve as a reminder for you each time you read it. I recently came across a quote that I loved, so I will share it with you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">-<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arenas; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood who strives valiantly; who blunder and comes up short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievements; and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly; so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither defeat nor victory.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">-<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span> -Theodore Roosevelt<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><br />
</div>Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-33026770225092422522011-05-16T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-16T00:00:08.312-07:00Graduation TimeI hope all of you had a great weekend. I was not able to post a blog Friday because the site was down for some reason. I was able to speak at a high school graduation Friday night, and I enjoyed every minute of it. As I sat and observed the ceremony before I spoke, I remembered my high school days and all of the great memories that came with it. I am so thankful for all of the teachers, coaches, and administrators that invested in my life for so many years. I want you to pray for all of the high school kids that have graduated and will be graduating in the next couple of weeks. Statistics show that 80% of kids drop out of church when they leave high school, so I am asking you to pray that these graduates would continue to seek Christ and stay in church as they embark on new journeys in their lives. I hope all of you have a magnificent Monday!<br />
<br />
Psalm 103:12<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-32351471373570842622011-05-11T19:44:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:29:41.663-07:00Formula for FailureI cannot give you the formula for success, but I can give you the formula for failure-which is: Try to please everybody.<br />
-Herbert Bayard Swope<br />
<br />
I think a lot of us get caught up in trying to please people, and we are setting ourselves up for failure by doing that. You should try and please two people, and if that is done, the rest will take care of itself. Please God and please yourself. Day in and day out a lot of us are worried what others are thinking about us and what others may say about us and it changes the way we live our lives. By doing that, we are setting ourselves up for failure in the end. Don't try and please other people because if you do, you will be doing that the rest of your life and never attain it. Please God and please yourself and your chance for success is a possibility! Have a great day!<br />
<br />
Psalm 37:4<br />
<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-86120137154704338462011-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-11T00:00:07.816-07:00We Need OthersI am convinced that we can't make it in this life without the help of others around us. We need friends to help us with our struggles and motivate us to stay on the right path. I am so thankful for the people in my life, and I want you to appreciate all of the people in yours as well. No matter how things may go in your life, a real friend will be there through it all. I want to encourage you to keep your head up and your eyes on the Lord as we all walk through this life together!<br />
<br />
Hebrews 12:1-2<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-34433704391033961272011-05-10T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-10T00:00:09.846-07:00Take the Time, TuesdayI have been talking with a lot of people lately, and I have realized more and more that a lot of people have problems and struggles. Most of the time, everyone we talk to seems to be doing perfectly fine when they are really struggling on the inside. I want you to take the time today to ask someone around you if you can pray for them in any particular way or if you can do anything for them. You will be amazed how people will open up to you if you give them the opportunity. The best part of it all is not only will it benefit them, it will benefit you as well! Have a terrific Tuesday!<br />
<br />
1 Peter 5:7<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-33466773552119027562011-05-09T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-09T00:00:09.391-07:00Great WeekendI hope all of you had a great weekend! I had a lot of fun at the Market Street Festival this weekend, and it was a success. Now that I have finished with Market Street, I am getting things ready for my second annual 3d football camp which I am very excited about as well. I am having one in Columbus as well as Starkville this year and you can check the site for the dates, times, and ages. Last night, I was able to see my longtime friend get ordained as a minister at my home church. It was so awesome to see a friend of mine continuing to pursue what God has for him in his life. I look forward to his future and the things God will do with him in the lives of other people. I hope all of you have a great week, and I wanted to leave you with a quote to think on.<br />
<br />
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.<br />
-Aristotle<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-80695394830662824992011-05-06T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-06T00:00:03.387-07:00Family and Friend Fellowship, FridayI hope all of you had a wonderful week! Mine was great because I finished my first year of graduate school which was awesome! I am excited about this weekend because Market Street Festival is in Columbus, and I will have a tent set up selling shirts to help build a home in Haiti. It takes $1200 to build a house in Haiti, so all of the money made from the shirts will go towards that! I look forward to a great weekend. Bring your friends and your family out to Market Street in downtown Columbus on Saturday and stop by my tent! I hope to see you there! Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-67680131041884985502011-05-05T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-05T00:00:01.959-07:00Measure of a manThe ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.<br />
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.<br />
<br />
It is so easy for people to stand up when things are going well or when things are on the rise. I find it interesting to watch people in times of trouble because I want to see how they will respond. Challenges and controversies are inevitable in life, but knowing how to deal with them and stand up to them is what matters the most. Always remember that you have it better than someone else. Have a terrific Thursday!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-49625868775259265462011-05-04T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-04T00:00:06.399-07:00DreamersEvery great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.<br />
-Harriet Tubman<br />
<br />
In order for a dream to come true, there has to be a dreamer to make it happen. Each person has the same opportunity to seek after the dreams that they may have in life. You have the strength to make it through when times are tough. You have the patience to continue when it seems as if things are not going as planned. You have the passion to reach higher than you could ever imagine and you could change the world. Have a wonderful Wednesday!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-75388956177685291992011-05-03T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-03T00:00:10.042-07:00Take the Time, TuesdayI hope your Monday was a great day and your week started off on a positive note. If it didn't make today a better day and finish the week strong. President Obama announced the death of Osama Bin Laden, and I thought about all of the military men and women that have given their lives for our country and they are not appreciated enough or recognized enough for their efforts and sacrifices. I want us all to take the time today to pray for all of our military personnel as well as their families. Because of what they do, we are free. I thank each and every one of them from the bottom of my heart because they are my heros. If you are ever out in public, take the time to speak to men and women that you seen in uniform and tell them how much you appreciate their service. Have a terrific Tuesday!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-33471054713041576042011-05-02T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-02T00:00:07.018-07:00Continue to pray for the victims of the stormsI hope all of you had a great weekend! I was able to go to Mayben, MS and Smithville, MS Saturday to help clean up from the tornadoes that hit and I was amazed at the destruction. While we were in Smithville, it was crazy to see one house that was completely destroyed and the house next door did not have any damage at all. We had a lot of volunteers there to help, so we were able to get a lot done. After lunch, I went to Smithville to drop off some supplies with some friends of mine and the people there were so appreciative of the things we brought. They kept telling us how much they appreciated the supplies and our being there to help. As we walked around Smithville, I was in shock at what I saw. Houses were completely gone. Cars had been thrown everywhere. I had never in my life seen anything remotely close to the damage I saw there. My heart still goes out to that community and so many others that have been affected by the storm. I ask that you will continue to pray for so many and give your time to help because it is desperately needed. I hope you have a magnificent Monday!<br />
<br />
Ephesians 2:10<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-36898695222663335712011-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-29T00:00:06.927-07:00PrayI hope all of you have had a great week. I was not able to post a blog yesterday because all of the power was out in Starkville due to the terrible weather that came through. I wanted to dedicate this blog to all of the people that have been affected by the tornadoes that came through Mississippi and Alabama Wednesday. I have seen videos and photos that are heart breaking and mind blowing. My heart goes out to all of the people that were directly and indirectly affected by the storm, and I hope that you will join in with me as we pray for them and give them our time other resources as well. Make strangers your family by giving them things that they need in times like these. I pray that lives and families will be restored and God will give peace to so many that need it. Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
2 Chronicles 7:14<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-26755114985827545632011-04-27T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-27T00:00:14.487-07:00Tyson P Lee Video Blog 3<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ObsDsw32S9o?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-51813743476327171462011-04-26T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-26T00:00:09.421-07:00Take the Time, TuesdayIt is exam week in Starkville, so things are very busy! Nothing like finishing a day with no brain cells left and having to prepare for another exam the next day. I want you to take the time today to pray for the teachers in America. Teachers have such an important job and they are often overlooked as an important profession. Without teachers, we would not be able to do anything. Pray that more teachers will see their role as an opportunity to really invest in lives and help build futures for the kids in the world today. I am so thankful for all of my teachers, and I appreciate all they did for me. Have a terrific Tuesday!<br />
<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-67745056993598889032011-04-25T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-25T00:00:01.224-07:00He Has RisenI hope all of you had a great weekend! I had an awesome weekend with friends and family as we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I was able to spend time with some of my closest friends this weekend, and it was great because we do not get to do that very often. I hope all of you reflected on the cross and the crucifixion this weekend because as Christians, it is the most important event in history. Christmas is always a great time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ but without his death, burial, and resurrection, everything is meaningless. We serve a God that was buried but the grave couldn't hold Him and now He is seated at the right hand of the Father. I watched an Easter presentation this weekend and there were two little boys that sat in front of me. I watched them throughout the play and their eyes were so fixed on everything that was going on, and I found myself praying for them. Praying that they would come to know Christ and seek Him with their whole heart. I pray that you will be encouraged today and no matter where you were or where you are right now, God loves you and He wants for you to come back to Him. I hope you have a magnificent Monday!<br />
<br />
1 John 2:17<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-45850897479847994302011-04-22T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-22T00:00:01.957-07:00Good FridayI hope all of you had a great week! Today is Good Friday which means Christ was crucified but 3 days later he rose and conquered death! Celebrate Easter. Celebrate a risen king! Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209997673003868337.post-52703537747569985612011-04-21T00:00:00.000-07:002011-04-21T00:00:06.030-07:00Tyson P Lee Video Blog 2<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MJDh_H8j6Sw?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Want to share YOUR story with Tyson or ask him a question? Email your story or question to <a href="mailto:asktyson@tysonplee.com">asktyson@tysonplee.com</a>.Tyson P. Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800219930864179084noreply@blogger.com0