Life is going pretty well right now but after Monday, November 4th I know it’s just one bad day from going back to the way things were.
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The Gospel of Kennison Episode 223: Life Lessons and Personal Updates
Welcome back to the Gospel of Kennison! In this episode, recorded during the week of November 16th, 2024, host James Kennison shares his personal audio journal filled with reflections on life, spirituality, and memorable experiences. Let’s dive into the highlights!
Are You Decent?
James kicks off the episode with a humorous anecdote about asking his wife if she was “decent.” This seemingly simple question leads him down a rabbit hole of thoughts about the meaning of “decent” and “indecent.” He humorously concludes that babies and animals (unless they wear clothes) are indeed indecent.
Key Takeaway:
- Decency vs. Indecency: A lighthearted reflection on how language shapes our perceptions.
Spiritual Encounters
In a surprising twist, James discovers that one of his coworkers, who he presumed had no religious affiliation, is a practicing Buddhist. This revelation piques his curiosity, especially when she mentions hosting a Buddhist meetup at her home.
Insights:
- Diverse Beliefs: The world is filled with various spiritual beliefs, often hidden beneath the surface.
- Curiosity: Engaging with others about their beliefs can lead to fascinating conversations.
A Weekend Adventure with Fire Iron Frenzy
James recounts an exciting weekend where he attended a concert by Fire Iron Frenzy, a band from his college days known for their ska music. He shares the joy of reconnecting with old favorites and the nostalgia that comes with it.
Concert Highlights:
- Road Trip: A five-hour drive to Chicago, picking up his brother-in-law along the way.
- Food Adventures: An unexpected yet delightful experience at a Vietnamese restaurant, where his brother-in-law’s charm leads to free samples and engaging conversations with the owner.
- Concert Experience: The energy of the concert, dancing, and singing along to every song, with a special mention of the song “Dandelions,” which beautifully compares a child’s gift of dandelions to the praise we offer to God.
Product Video Experience
James shares an exciting project he undertook at work involving a new product called palette gel, used in screen printing. Initially hesitant, he decides to create a promotional video showcasing the product’s unique features.
Video Production Journey:
- Creative Process: Collaborating with a graphic design buddy to shoot the video.
- Unexpected Challenges: Navigating the difficulties of filming alone and improvising when things didn’t go as planned.
- Positive Feedback: After sending the video to his boss, he receives an enthusiastic response, opening the door for future video projects.
Important Lessons:
- Value of Creativity: Embracing one’s unique style can lead to innovative results.
- Work-Life Balance: Balancing creative endeavors with professional responsibilities is essential to avoid being taken for granted.
Viral Success at Work
In a delightful turn of events, James’s initial video went viral within his workplace, leading to an impressive spike in product sales. His boss expresses excitement about the video’s success, noting that they sold over 60 units of the product after its release.
Key Moments:
- Instant Feedback: Unlike podcasting, where feedback is often delayed, James enjoys the immediate reactions from coworkers who compliment his video.
- Connecting with the Audience: Drawing on his experience as a youth pastor, James effectively engages viewers, making the video relatable and entertaining.
Hands-On Learning Experience
James shares his experience filming a promotional video for screen printing classes at his workplace. Despite a smaller-than-usual class size, he captures the enthusiasm of two dedicated participants who traveled long distances to learn.
Filming Highlights:
- Engaging Interviews: James interviews the attendees, capturing their excitement and insights about the class.
- Documenting the Process: He films each step of the screen printing process, showcasing the hands-on nature of the training.
- Building Connections: Through genuine interactions, James fosters a sense of community among participants, enhancing the learning experience.
Life Reflections: Just Because It Hurt
In a poignant segment, James shares a personal lesson he learned recently: “Just because it hurt, doesn’t mean it was said to hurt you.” He reflects on a painful interaction that led him to lash out, realizing he failed to offer grace in a moment of hurt.
Key Insights:
- Self-Reflection: Acknowledging our reactions can lead to personal growth.
- Offering Grace: Understanding that others may not intend to hurt us is vital for healthy relationships, whether in marriage, friendships, or even with pets.
Conclusion: Life is Decent
In this episode, James Kennison shares a mix of humor, life lessons, and personal anecdotes that resonate with listeners. From pondering the meaning of decency to reliving the thrill of a concert and diving into creative projects at work, the episode is a reminder to embrace life’s adventures and the connections we make along the way.
Final Thoughts:
- Stay Curious: Engage with the world around you, whether through music, food, or conversations about beliefs.
- Embrace Creativity: Don’t shy away from expressing your unique perspective in both personal and professional projects.
- Practice Grace: Remember to give others the benefit of the doubt and approach interactions with understanding.
Thank you for tuning in to the Gospel of Kennison! Until next time, stay decent and keep exploring the wonders of life.
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