On June 3, 2009, my 14-year-old son Maxwell delivered the commencement address to the graduating 8th graders at Toby Johnson Middle School in Elk Grove, CA.  Needless to say, I'm very proud of him and thankful that God has given me and Marielle a son who is capable delivering a thoughtful message and in such a public way.

It's hard to believe that this is the same boy whose childhood nickname was "troublemaker" and even today has pitch battles with his siblings and demonstrates anti-social behavior typical of his age bracket. So, I guess the lesson here is that no matter how many times you want to wring your kids' neck, there is hope for them. By God's grace they just might surprise you.

His speech entitled "Face and Overcome" pointed out that many of our great achievements are not rooted in grand schemes and visions, but are the result of overcoming simple, everyday challenges. The cumulative effect of just getting to school on time, helping friends in need, and taking out the trash builds the character that's needed to affect lasting change in the world around us.

Watch it on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9hCVclH3Vw