Every now and then there are certain people who I like to write about who have made a profound impact on not only my life,but my family's as well. There are so many of you out there who have played a major role in our lives and each of you deserve appreciation. Unfortunately, there are only so many articles I can write.
I would, however, like to write about a particular family that has always taken my family in among many other families here in Millington. This particular family has befriended several in the community, and it is rare when you cannot find a connection in some form or fashion to this family. I am speaking of my friends, Claude and Norma Freeman.
The Freemans settled in Lucy and had four daughters: Beth, Judy, Robin, and Diane. Claude was retired Navy and started his trade in the construction business where he quickly developed several relationships here in the Millington area. All four girls were married off and three of the four still reside in Lucy today. Beth married Steve Sparks, another native Lucy boy, and later became some of my parents' very best friends. Through that relationship, the Childresses were accepted into the Freeman family with open arms.
Some of my favorite childhood memories happened at the Freemans. Starting every Memorial Day until Labor Day, the Freemans would host a cookout every Sunday afternoon. Families from all around would come over and bring several dishes of food. Picnic tables would be placed together to form a potluck train of goodies. The men would always hang out under the gazebo where the grilling took place. We would eat everything from burgers to catfish. All of us kids would go swimming in the Freemans' pool. On average I would estimate there to be ten or twelve families there every Sunday afternoon, making the kid count to be anywhere between twenty to forty. Needless to say, there were a lot of kids in that pool. Mr. Claude would have the Oldies 98 radio station playing while we all enjoyed our summer afternoons. After lunch the brave would make their way over to the self-made volleyball court on the side of the yard. I say the brave, because to a ten-year old, you had to be brave to play with these guys. Although it was intimidating to be a kid playing all of these grown men, I have to admit it was pretty invigorating when I made a great play and had all of these guys give you props. It was not fun, however, when my chicken leg self had to guard a Jeremy or Larry Bright or someone twice my size. All in all it was great fun and made for an outstanding summer tradition.
The Freemans not only opened their home up to us on Sunday afternoons, but several other instances like Fourth of July, Thanksgiving (when we had no plans), and we’ve even celebrated Christmas with them on occasion. My brother even had a couple of birthday parties and baseball parties there as well. To me, what makes this family so special is this well-established family, a family who could be perfectly happy spending time with just each other, opened up their friendships to families like ours who had no other family around them. The Freemans are the epitome of community, and one that I personally strive for with my own little family. Step outside your comfort zone and make a lifelong impact on others.
-Steve Childress
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Nana's Treat
For many, this time of year indicates a time of excitement. School is letting out, summer begins, and vacations start. For my brother, cousins, and me, it meant our annual reward trip with our Nana. Every year, as a reward, Nana would take all of us boys on a special trip to the Memphis Zoo. It was all Nana’s treat.
Nana was my dad’s grandmother who practically raised him, his sister Skeeter, and brothers David and Randy. On my dad’s side I considered her to be my grandmother as well. Since the first of us boys arrived in this world, Nana started this tradition. Shawn was the oldest, then Chris and I in the middle, then my little brother Will was the youngest. Nana was a little ol’ frail lady who was quick to discipline but also quick to love. Our parents would drop us all off at her house in Frayser where we would all pile in her car and take off. She somehow always managed all four of us through out the park and practically gave us everything we wanted. Every year we would always get the magic penny that you pay a quarter for and receive a shiny penny that would be squished into an imprint of a gorilla. The Memphis zoo also had annual attractions and, of course, the figurines that came along with them. The back window of Nana’s car became a collection of all the mentioned figurines to remind us of our trips. There would be white tigers, gorillas, and pandas crowding the window. After visiting the animals, we would always ride the rides. Chris and I are the same age, so we rode most of them together while my compassionate cousin Shawn kept up with my little brother Will.
We would leave the zoo around noon and head towards the Wendy’s in Raleigh where we ate lunch before heading to the Mecca of all toy stores--Children’s Palace. It was every child’s dream. As a matter of fact I thought it was the ultimate toy store until I saw F.A.O. Schwartz on “Big”, but never the less, it was always exciting to visit. Nana would let us pick out one toy a piece which typically ended up being a GI Joe toy or something. By this time we were all worn out and ready to head home.
As we got older we realized Nana was getting older too. Shawn started doing all of the driving and we started to accommodate Nana as much as possible. Although it was an exhausting event for her, she always insisted we go. We continued this tradition all the way through high school and college. Chris and I were both freshmen at Memphis, Shawn was in Law School at Ole Miss, and Will was in high school at Millington. No matter how old we were we saw the importance of this tradition.
Nana passed away later my freshman year of college and the tradition ceased. We’ve talked about picking it back up, but everyone’s schedule, including mine, has always made it difficult. Shawn and I now have kids of our own and plan on starting this tradition for them, as well as pick it back up for us. I think Nana would’ve wanted it that way.
-Steve Childress
Nana was my dad’s grandmother who practically raised him, his sister Skeeter, and brothers David and Randy. On my dad’s side I considered her to be my grandmother as well. Since the first of us boys arrived in this world, Nana started this tradition. Shawn was the oldest, then Chris and I in the middle, then my little brother Will was the youngest. Nana was a little ol’ frail lady who was quick to discipline but also quick to love. Our parents would drop us all off at her house in Frayser where we would all pile in her car and take off. She somehow always managed all four of us through out the park and practically gave us everything we wanted. Every year we would always get the magic penny that you pay a quarter for and receive a shiny penny that would be squished into an imprint of a gorilla. The Memphis zoo also had annual attractions and, of course, the figurines that came along with them. The back window of Nana’s car became a collection of all the mentioned figurines to remind us of our trips. There would be white tigers, gorillas, and pandas crowding the window. After visiting the animals, we would always ride the rides. Chris and I are the same age, so we rode most of them together while my compassionate cousin Shawn kept up with my little brother Will.
We would leave the zoo around noon and head towards the Wendy’s in Raleigh where we ate lunch before heading to the Mecca of all toy stores--Children’s Palace. It was every child’s dream. As a matter of fact I thought it was the ultimate toy store until I saw F.A.O. Schwartz on “Big”, but never the less, it was always exciting to visit. Nana would let us pick out one toy a piece which typically ended up being a GI Joe toy or something. By this time we were all worn out and ready to head home.
As we got older we realized Nana was getting older too. Shawn started doing all of the driving and we started to accommodate Nana as much as possible. Although it was an exhausting event for her, she always insisted we go. We continued this tradition all the way through high school and college. Chris and I were both freshmen at Memphis, Shawn was in Law School at Ole Miss, and Will was in high school at Millington. No matter how old we were we saw the importance of this tradition.
Nana passed away later my freshman year of college and the tradition ceased. We’ve talked about picking it back up, but everyone’s schedule, including mine, has always made it difficult. Shawn and I now have kids of our own and plan on starting this tradition for them, as well as pick it back up for us. I think Nana would’ve wanted it that way.
-Steve Childress
Sunday, May 16, 2010
A Family to Mirror, The Chapman's
Typically most of my articles are full of optimism and happy family events. I am usually that kind of person, but it just so happens that this article is centered around tragedy with a message of Hope. As a musician, we have many mentors and people we admire. There is one who stands out in my mind that I have always put on a pedestal above all other musicians. When I was 15 my mom and dad gave me my first CD player accompanied by the latest Amy Grant CD and some long haired guy named Steven Curtis Chapman. Amy Grant wasn't really my taste of music so I tried the other guy. This wonderful orchestral music filled the room in CD Quality sound and followed immediately by "The Great Adventure" and I was hooked.
It was Steven Curtis Chapman who inspired me to learn to play the guitar even though I'd never met the guy. Funny how that is, huh? I knew then that his style of Christian Music was identical to my style so like every dreamy eyed teenager with a guitar I would mimic his every song. Once I learned to somewhat fake, I mean play the guitar I started leading praise and worship for my youth group and many other venues. My then church leader (later I would call my father-n-law) always joked and called me Steven Curtis Childress, which might offend some people to be called someone they are not, but I took with immense pride. That $13.99 CD I received that Christmas was one of the greatest physical gifts I had ever received, because it started me down a path I still pursue today.
Steven is married to wife Marybeth Chapman and they have three children of their own, Emily, Caleb, and Will Franklin. Steven and his wife visited China in early 2000, 01' where they fell in love with a little girl, and after much prayer, adopted Shoahannah. This experience touched the Chapman's so much that they felt the need to start Shoahannah's Hope, an adoption foundation to alleviate the financial burden for adopting families. Shoahannah's Hope has helped hundreds of families since with their adoptions. Over the years the Chapman's added two more adoptions to their family, Stevie Joy, and Maria Sue.
May 21st, 2008 was a busy day in the Chapman household. Daughter Emily had just announced her engagement and was preparing for an October wedding, son Caleb was preparing for graduation in a few days, and the family had much to be thankful for. That afternoon son Will Franklin was returning home in Franklin TN. , and had pulled around in the drive. Youngest daughter Maria ran towards Will as he pulled in. Not knowing she was running towards him Maria was struck. Maria Sue Chapman went to be with her heavenly Father that very afternoon.
In moments such as this a family can be divided, loose their faith in an instance, or grow stronger than ever. My heart was crushed as if the Chapman's were some of our very best friends, and still I'd have never met a one of them.
The Chapman's were approached by several people in the media to tell their story. The last thing they wanted was to use Maria's death as publicity. They agreed to a few interviews with the determination to use Maria's death as a testimony of Hope. After watching these interviews my respect for Steven and his family became one to benchmark. Now that I am a dad and have a family of my own I can't help but think if Shannon and I were in that situation. The way the Chapman's have surrounded each other in support and love is how I would like to say the Childeress' would do. What a great example of a Godly family. A family that through tragedy comes questions, pain, healing, but ultimate Hope. The Hope that God is God and we are not, and that ALL things work towards His Glory and Plan. The Chapman's realize this and know that one day they will see their daughter Maria Sue again. The piece of this story that I think touched me the most was the question "see". I don't "see" how God can do this, I can't "see" Will Franklin ever being the same again, "All I could "see" was Maria's broken body on the ground. The day after her death the Chapman's came home to gather a few things for the memorial service. On the kitchen table was a single drawing of a flower with six peddles, one colored in whole, and the word "see". Maria had drawn this picture the morning of her death. The Chapman's had said that they had never seen her write the word "see", but there it was in plain English. The flower had six peddles, the Chapman's had six children, one peddle was colored in whole. The Chapman's took this drawing and showed it at the memorial service. Steven, through his tears, said "See" I am made whole and I will "see" you all soon once your peddles are colored in and you will be whole just like me.
Take a moment and check out the interview: http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=5524419
It was Steven Curtis Chapman who inspired me to learn to play the guitar even though I'd never met the guy. Funny how that is, huh? I knew then that his style of Christian Music was identical to my style so like every dreamy eyed teenager with a guitar I would mimic his every song. Once I learned to somewhat fake, I mean play the guitar I started leading praise and worship for my youth group and many other venues. My then church leader (later I would call my father-n-law) always joked and called me Steven Curtis Childress, which might offend some people to be called someone they are not, but I took with immense pride. That $13.99 CD I received that Christmas was one of the greatest physical gifts I had ever received, because it started me down a path I still pursue today.
Steven is married to wife Marybeth Chapman and they have three children of their own, Emily, Caleb, and Will Franklin. Steven and his wife visited China in early 2000, 01' where they fell in love with a little girl, and after much prayer, adopted Shoahannah. This experience touched the Chapman's so much that they felt the need to start Shoahannah's Hope, an adoption foundation to alleviate the financial burden for adopting families. Shoahannah's Hope has helped hundreds of families since with their adoptions. Over the years the Chapman's added two more adoptions to their family, Stevie Joy, and Maria Sue.
May 21st, 2008 was a busy day in the Chapman household. Daughter Emily had just announced her engagement and was preparing for an October wedding, son Caleb was preparing for graduation in a few days, and the family had much to be thankful for. That afternoon son Will Franklin was returning home in Franklin TN. , and had pulled around in the drive. Youngest daughter Maria ran towards Will as he pulled in. Not knowing she was running towards him Maria was struck. Maria Sue Chapman went to be with her heavenly Father that very afternoon.
In moments such as this a family can be divided, loose their faith in an instance, or grow stronger than ever. My heart was crushed as if the Chapman's were some of our very best friends, and still I'd have never met a one of them.
The Chapman's were approached by several people in the media to tell their story. The last thing they wanted was to use Maria's death as publicity. They agreed to a few interviews with the determination to use Maria's death as a testimony of Hope. After watching these interviews my respect for Steven and his family became one to benchmark. Now that I am a dad and have a family of my own I can't help but think if Shannon and I were in that situation. The way the Chapman's have surrounded each other in support and love is how I would like to say the Childeress' would do. What a great example of a Godly family. A family that through tragedy comes questions, pain, healing, but ultimate Hope. The Hope that God is God and we are not, and that ALL things work towards His Glory and Plan. The Chapman's realize this and know that one day they will see their daughter Maria Sue again. The piece of this story that I think touched me the most was the question "see". I don't "see" how God can do this, I can't "see" Will Franklin ever being the same again, "All I could "see" was Maria's broken body on the ground. The day after her death the Chapman's came home to gather a few things for the memorial service. On the kitchen table was a single drawing of a flower with six peddles, one colored in whole, and the word "see". Maria had drawn this picture the morning of her death. The Chapman's had said that they had never seen her write the word "see", but there it was in plain English. The flower had six peddles, the Chapman's had six children, one peddle was colored in whole. The Chapman's took this drawing and showed it at the memorial service. Steven, through his tears, said "See" I am made whole and I will "see" you all soon once your peddles are colored in and you will be whole just like me.
Take a moment and check out the interview: http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=5524419
Monday, May 10, 2010
Clark Kent
As a kid I dreamed of being many things when I grew up. Living in
Millington, practically every kid wanted to be a fighter pilot. We had
influence from the F-14 jets flying over every 15 minutes.
The Millington skyline was filled with fighter jets from morning to
dark. It was an exciting place live to say the least.
As I got older my taste change, as it often does, and like most
teenagers with a guitar around their neck I wanted to be a singer. At
the time my favorite musician was Garth Brooks. I played everything he
played and started to imitate his style as much as possible. My very first song I
ever sang in front of an audience was "The Dance". Later in life God
convicted me and I started playing music for Him, but of
course Garth's whole Chris Gaines alter-ego turned me off of his music
like it did most anyways.
So my dream was set, and off to Nashville I go playing in every place
that would have me. I worked full time as a bank teller during the day
and at night played at local restaurants, night joints, and other hang
outs. Something unexpected happened to me though. I found myself
moving further up in the bank than I was in my music career. Banking
was never a job I had a desire for, but it fit my schedule so I could purse my dream. Banking, however,
was slowly taking over my dream until it became my full time "career".
Ten years, a wife, daughter, mortgage, and two cars later I found
myself still consumed in a banking career. This past Fall I was
going through a bible study of Tony Dungee's ”UnCommon” book. He posed
the question " what is your true potential?” From a biblical stand
point, "what is it that you love to do that not everyone loves to do
or can do?" At that point it hit me. Music has always and will always
be my passion. Can I make a living doing this passion? Most likely
not but it is a gift God has given me and I am to be obedient with
this gift. For ten years I realized I had tucked my red cape behind my
suit and posed as Clark Kent when I’ve been Superman this entire
time. I immediately prayed that God use me and the gift He's given me
as a ministry for Him. He has not disappointed me since and has
allowed me to lead worship in numerous venues since I made that
commitment to Him.
I am still a banker and play the role of Clark Kent during the day.
Banking provides the necessities to meet my family's needs but also
finances my ministry. On stage I reveal my true identity and continue
to willing fully lead worship. Now this is just me. We all have a
passion, a dream that separates you from your neighbor or co-worker.
When was the last time you shed your Clark Kent disguise and showcased
your true identity? As Christians we are given specific spiritual
gifts. These gifts are our ministry in the church. Our gifts always
fits our personality and who we are, we are perfect for the gift. As
the body of Christ, God has knit you together for the art for what
you're good at. You take this talent to God; lay it at the feet of
Jesus and ask "how can I point people to You with this?” God will honor
you and that art for Him. You may be a shy person, but a mighty prayer
warrior or you may be very creative and volunteer for multiple
productions and events. Regardless you are made special and there is
no one else like you. Take off those glasses, hat, and coat. Let the
world see you for who you are, a superhero.
-Steve Childress
Millington, practically every kid wanted to be a fighter pilot. We had
influence from the F-14 jets flying over every 15 minutes.
The Millington skyline was filled with fighter jets from morning to
dark. It was an exciting place live to say the least.
As I got older my taste change, as it often does, and like most
teenagers with a guitar around their neck I wanted to be a singer. At
the time my favorite musician was Garth Brooks. I played everything he
played and started to imitate his style as much as possible. My very first song I
ever sang in front of an audience was "The Dance". Later in life God
convicted me and I started playing music for Him, but of
course Garth's whole Chris Gaines alter-ego turned me off of his music
like it did most anyways.
So my dream was set, and off to Nashville I go playing in every place
that would have me. I worked full time as a bank teller during the day
and at night played at local restaurants, night joints, and other hang
outs. Something unexpected happened to me though. I found myself
moving further up in the bank than I was in my music career. Banking
was never a job I had a desire for, but it fit my schedule so I could purse my dream. Banking, however,
was slowly taking over my dream until it became my full time "career".
Ten years, a wife, daughter, mortgage, and two cars later I found
myself still consumed in a banking career. This past Fall I was
going through a bible study of Tony Dungee's ”UnCommon” book. He posed
the question " what is your true potential?” From a biblical stand
point, "what is it that you love to do that not everyone loves to do
or can do?" At that point it hit me. Music has always and will always
be my passion. Can I make a living doing this passion? Most likely
not but it is a gift God has given me and I am to be obedient with
this gift. For ten years I realized I had tucked my red cape behind my
suit and posed as Clark Kent when I’ve been Superman this entire
time. I immediately prayed that God use me and the gift He's given me
as a ministry for Him. He has not disappointed me since and has
allowed me to lead worship in numerous venues since I made that
commitment to Him.
I am still a banker and play the role of Clark Kent during the day.
Banking provides the necessities to meet my family's needs but also
finances my ministry. On stage I reveal my true identity and continue
to willing fully lead worship. Now this is just me. We all have a
passion, a dream that separates you from your neighbor or co-worker.
When was the last time you shed your Clark Kent disguise and showcased
your true identity? As Christians we are given specific spiritual
gifts. These gifts are our ministry in the church. Our gifts always
fits our personality and who we are, we are perfect for the gift. As
the body of Christ, God has knit you together for the art for what
you're good at. You take this talent to God; lay it at the feet of
Jesus and ask "how can I point people to You with this?” God will honor
you and that art for Him. You may be a shy person, but a mighty prayer
warrior or you may be very creative and volunteer for multiple
productions and events. Regardless you are made special and there is
no one else like you. Take off those glasses, hat, and coat. Let the
world see you for who you are, a superhero.
-Steve Childress
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