Inspiration and insights usually strike me in the weirdest places and at the strangest times. This was one of those weird places and strange times - I was standing in the bathroom at a parish in Bryan, Texas. I had been uttering some words under my breath (I tend to talk to myself), when I had a big uh oh moment. I was wearing a lapel microphone…

Men need to be encouraged, affirmed, and challenged by other men that they respect. One of the problems with this is that there is not an abundance of respectable men in the world. This moment meant a lot to me personally, but like many other positive experiences in my life, it planted in me a deep desire to recreate this moment for others who were, or would eventually be, in my life.

Holy Week is my favorite week of the year. I love entering into the depths of the passion and resurrection of our Lord. There are a few key moments that I really love to ponder. The last supper, the agony in the garden, and Jesus carrying His cross are some of my favorite mysteries of the rosary. Every year, I try and enter into these mysteries through the traditions of the Church, as well as through some personal traditions. One tradition that I’ve begun to find especially powerful is watching the movie the Passion of the Christ on Good Friday.

A few days ago, I began a reflection on finding our true selves, here are my final thoughts on how you can find clarity and peace in you who are meant to be: Often times people want what is best for you, but don’t know what is best for you.

Who the f*ck are you?

These are the first words I heard when I walked into Bravo Company’s offices for the first time. The guy’s name was Rob, and he was known for being pretty direct especially with newer guys. I had been instructed by my boss to go over there to coordinate some upcoming training, not to get into an altercation with another lieutenant. The words shocked me, but it wasn’t the first time I faced such blunt and rude curiosity manifesting itself in words.

A common question asked in Christian circles today is “Where are all the men?” I was in a meeting with one of my parish leadership teams on Monday, and they raised the question multiple times. It’s undoubtedly a good one, but personally I think it’s a little late to be asking it.